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DENTAL MYTHS & FACTS ABOUT CAVITIES
Myth 1: Sugar is the only thing that causes cavities
In fact the acid produced by bacteria cause cavities. The bacteria digest the sugar we eat. Any carb you eat can contribute to bacteria produced acid such as sugar from fruit, rice, and bread.
Fact 1: Acid causes tooth decay
Consuming acidic foods and drinks can erode the enamel (outer covering of teeth) similar to the way bacterial acid wears the teeth.
Myth 2: Kids get more cavities than adults
While there has been a decrease in childhood cavities since the public health initiative to put fluoride in drinking water, there has been an increase in cavities in the elderly due to medications that dry the mouth. One of saliva’s main benefits is to protect the teeth from acid.
Myth 3: Putting aspirin next to a tooth will help a toothache
Aspirin must get into the bloodstream to exert its effects. The acidity of the aspirin tablet could cause an ulcer on your gums.
Myth 4: You will know when you have a cavity
When the cavity gets so big it reaches the pulp you will probably have intense pain. However, it’s best to get a cavity treated when it is small and before the pain starts so that as much of your natural tooth as possible is still healthy.
Fact 2: Once a tooth is treated the decay stops
Before your dentist puts in a filling he makes sure all of the cavity and diseased tooth is removed so that it is clean before the filling. However, after a filling is placed a new cavity can initiate if diet and home care aren’t improved.
Fact 3: Cavities are most likely between your teeth
Bacteria love to hide where the toothbrush can’t reach, especially between your teeth. Use floss, mouthwash, and interdental brushes to get the difficult spots between teeth.
Myth 5: Cavities are the only reason for root canals
Injury to the tooth can also require a root canal
Fact 4: You have to brush and floss to prevent cavities
Definitely! Without excellent home care you won’t be able to remove food, plaque, and bacteria. If you don’t like to floss try an interdental brush or a toothpick.
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Gary R. Pearl, DMD, MAGD
Scott A Pearl, DMD, FAGD
Adam R Abel, DMD, MD
Gary R. Pearl, DMD, MAGD
Gary R. Pearl, DMD, MAGD, graduated from the University of Connecticut with a BS in Pharmacy and the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He spent his general practice residency at Park City Hospital in Bridgeport, CT, and is a graduate of the Pankey Institute in Key Biscayne, FL. In 2005, he achieved the highest Academy of General Dentistry honor- Mastership (MAGD). Dr. Pearl is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Connecticut State Dental Association (CSDA), and the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Pearl is an expert in many facets of dentistry is constantly advancing what dentistry can offer.
Scott A Pearl, DMD, FAGD
Scott A Pearl, DMD, FAGD, attended college at the University of Connecticut followed be earning a masters degree in Molecular and Cell Biology from Quinnipiac University. He graduated from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency training at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, NY. In 2021, Dr. Pearl became a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, a milestone reached by only six percent of dentists in the US. He is President of the New Haven Dental Association from 2024 to 2025 (Board Member since 2021), and a member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, American Dental Association and CT State Dental Association. His clinical interests include CEREC digital dentistry and implants.. He believes that quality dental care can profoundly affect patients’ physical and mental well-being.
View LinkedIn ProfileAdam R Abel, DMD, MD
Adam R Abel, DMD, MD, specializes in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He received his BS from Tufts University and his DMD from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. He then underwent specialty training in oral and maxillofacial surgery at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital Weill Cornell Medical Center. He earned an MD degree at Weill Cornell Medicine and completed extensive training in anesthesiology and general surgery. Dr. Abel also works in NYC and has a teaching position at Weill Cornell, where he also performs advanced jaw surgeries, including orthognathic surgery. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.