You know good dental habits keep your teeth and gums healthy, but when you’re at the dentist, you may feel tempted to bend the truth. Very often, however, the dentist can tell when you’re lying. Here are the four most common lies and reasons why your dentist knows the truth:
1. “I Floss Every Day”
Flossing is one of the most common things patients lie about. Most of the time, the truth is obvious. Plaque and bacteria build up between your teeth and under your gums. Even if you brush really well, the bristles can’t clean those tight spaces. We can spot signs of gum disease like inflammation and swelling. If you are flossing and still showing signs of gum disease, we should discuss proper flossing techniques and your other dental habits.
2. “I Don’t Smoke”
Smoking is one of the most dangerous habits for your health. It increases your risk for a variety of cancers, including mouth and throat cancers. Smoking and other tobacco use also dry out your mouth and leave distinct stains on your teeth. Dentists can see the evidence in your mouth during an exam.
3. “I Don’t Grind My Teeth”
Teeth grinding and clenching can fracture and flatten the surfaces of your teeth. A dentist can see the signs. If you only grind your teeth at night, you may not even know it’s happening. We can talk about getting a nightguard, which protects your teeth from grinding damage.
4. “I Don’t Drink That Much Alcohol”
Excessive alcohol consumption leaves several clues on your teeth and gums. First, it can cause dry mouth, which reduces saliva production and increases your risk for gum disease and cavities. Dark-colored alcohols, like red wine, stain your teeth. Research also shows that heavy drinkers are more likely to get oral cancer.
Visit Reen Chung, DDS for High-Quality, Compassionate Dentistry in Seattle, WA
When people lie to the dentist, they’re most likely feeling guilty or embarrassed. At our office, we want to create an environment where every patient feels comfortable telling us the truth. This lets us provide the best care possible. If you want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chung, please reach out to us today!
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