When it comes to dental care, there’s no shortage of advice and information out there — but not all of it is accurate. These misconceptions may contribute to why some people avoid going to the dentist. Additionally, myths about dental care can lead to poor habits, missed treatments, and unnecessary worries. Here, we debunk some common myths about oral care, dental insurance, and other important topics.
Myth 1: If you don’t have a specific problem, you don’t need to go to the dentist
Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases in children and adults.1 However, you don’t always feel a cavity forming. It’s recommended that both children and adults see a dentist every six months to get a routine examination and cleaning.2 These exams are crucial to spotting potentially major dental issues early so you can avoid costly, possibly painful procedures.
An individual or family dental insurance policy typically covers preventative care like routine dental exams and cleanings, as well as basic services like fillings that can help keep your teeth in good health. Some plans may even help cover the costs of more significant procedures like root canals or crowns.
Myth 2: Newborns don’t need dental insurance
Do newborns need dental insurance? Yes! Even baby teeth can get cavities, so the CDC recommends routine visits for everyone starting at age 1.1 There are several important benefits to seeing a dentist this early:
- It can help prevent cavities in baby teeth.
- It provides routine care to help ensure healthy gums and teeth.
- It can help establish healthy oral care habits.
Adding a newborn to your family dental insurance plan should be simple. Getting them to stay still in the dentist’s chair may be more of a challenge.
Myth 3: Brushing harder cleans better
You might think that the harder you brush, the more plaque and tartar you’re getting off your teeth. While you might remove some of the bad stuff, you’re also likely doing damage to your teeth. Overbrushing can wear away at the enamel on your teeth, which can cause abrasion, tooth sensitivity, and even gum recession.3 Talk to your dentist about the best techniques and the right brush for your teeth to ensure you aren’t overdoing it when you brush.
Myth 4: Regular flossing isn’t important
Some of us tend to underrate the importance of flossing. You might think that flossing weekly or a few times a month is enough, but that’s not the reality. The CDC recommends flossing daily because it can help remove plaque and contribute to stronger, healthier gums.4
Myth 5: Sugar is the only cause of cavities
While sugar can play a role in tooth decay, keep in mind that it’s not the only factor. Cavities form when bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and starches, producing acids that break down tooth enamel over time. But other factors, like poor brushing habits, dry mouth, acidic foods and drinks, and even genetics, can also contribute to tooth decay. Good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and a balanced diet are all important in keeping your mouth healthy, not just cutting back on sweets.
Myth 6: Dental insurance doesn’t cover routine care
Dental insurance is, in fact, one of the best ways to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and ensure you get the regular care you need. Dental insurance policies typically cover preventative care like routine dental exams and X-rays, basic services like fillings, and even more significant procedures like root canals. With either an individual or a family dental plan, you can get affordable routine cleanings and the expert medical care you need to detect potential issues early before they become more significant. Plus, you can also get necessary medical procedures done at a reduced rate.
The bottom line
Dental care is too important to listen to the myths. There’s a lot of misinformation out there regarding oral health, so it’s crucial to visit a dentist regularly to help prevent potential issues and support your oral care. With routine preventative care supported by a dental insurance policy, you can reduce your chances of needing expensive and potentially painful dental procedures, and save on out-of-pocket costs for medically necessary visits.
Sources:
1 CDC – Dental Visits. Updated June 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/hus/topics/dental-visits.htm. Accessed April 24, 2025.
2 Penn Dental Medicine — How Often Should You Go to the Dentist? Updated January 2, 2024. https://penndentalmedicine.org/phmc-cedar-campus/blog/how-often-to-see-dentist/. Accessed April 24, 2025.
3 Colgate – Is Over Brushing Your Teeth Bad? Updated July 28, 2023. https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/brushing-and-flossing/over-brushing-teeth-too-much-of-a-good-thing. Accessed April 24, 2025.
4 CDC – About Oral Health Updated May 15, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/about/index.html. Accessed April 24, 2025.
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