Top 10 Dental Myths – Busted by Experts at Wycombe Dental Clinic
Separating Fact from Fiction for a Healthier, Happier Smile
In the world of dentistry, myths and misconceptions are surprisingly common—and they often stop patients from seeking the care they truly need. At Wycombe Dental Clinic, we believe in empowering patients with clear, evidence-based dental advice.
Let’s take a look at 10 of the most common dental myths and get the facts straight—so you can smile with confidence!
🦷 Myth 1: Root canal treatment is very painful
❌ Not true! Thanks to modern dental techniques and anaesthesia, root canal treatment is no more painful than getting a filling. In fact, root canals are designed to relieve pain, not cause it. Patients often confuse the pain of the infected tooth with the procedure—but most feel significant relief after treatment.
🦷 Myth 2: Dental extractions are very painful
❌ Not true! Tooth extractions are carried out under local anaesthesia, meaning the area is completely numb before any work begins. You may feel some pressure, but you should not feel pain. Our gentle and experienced team ensures your comfort at every step.
🦷 Myth 3: Once the toothache goes away, the problem is gone
❌ Absolutely false! Pain can fade as the nerve inside the tooth dies, but this doesn’t mean the infection or problem is resolved. In fact, untreated dental infections can worsen silently and lead to serious complications. Always get a professional assessment, even if the pain disappears.
🦷 Myth 4: Dental fillings last forever
❌ Not quite! While dental fillings are designed to be long-lasting, they are not permanent. Over time, wear and tear, biting pressure, and natural degradation can weaken the seal between the filling and tooth. Routine dental check-ups help monitor and maintain your restorations.
🦷 Myth 5: Bleeding gums are normal during brushing
❌ A common but dangerous myth. Bleeding gums are an early sign of gum disease, not a harmless side effect of brushing. Healthy gums should not bleed. If they do, it’s often due to plaque buildup, gingivitis, or incorrect brushing technique. Early treatment can prevent more serious gum issues.
🦷 Myth 6: You only need to see a dentist if something hurts
❌ Waiting for pain is risky. Many dental problems—like gum disease, cavities, or oral cancers—can develop silently. By the time pain sets in, the issue may already be advanced. Preventive check-ups every 6 months help catch problems early and save you time, money, and discomfort.
🦷 Myth 7: Whitening toothpaste can drastically whiten your teeth
❌ Not the whole story. Whitening toothpastes may remove surface stains but don’t change the actual colour of your teeth. For noticeable, safe, and even whitening results, professional treatments like in-office whitening or custom trays are far more effective.
🦷 Myth 8: Baby teeth don’t matter—they’ll fall out anyway
❌ Baby teeth are very important! They help with speech development, chewing, and act as placeholders for adult teeth. Decayed or infected baby teeth can cause pain, infections, and affect the development of permanent teeth. They need the same level of care as adult teeth.
🦷 Myth 9: Brushing harder cleans better
❌ Brushing too hard can do more harm than good. Aggressive brushing can erode enamel, damage gums, and cause tooth sensitivity. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions for two minutes twice a day. It’s not about pressure—it’s about technique.
🦷 Myth 10: Sugar is the only cause of cavities
❌ Sugar plays a role—but it’s not the only factor. Cavities are caused by acid-producing bacteria that feed on carbohydrates—not just sugar. Frequent snacking, poor brushing habits, and dry mouth also contribute to decay. Good oral hygiene and limiting all fermentable carbs is key to prevention.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let myths compromise your dental health. At Wycombe Dental Clinic, we’re here to offer you honest, expert guidance based on science—not superstition.
Book Your Dental Check-Up Today
Got questions or concerns? Our friendly team is ready to help. 📞 Call us or book online for a consultation with one of our experienced dentists in High Wycombe.