Is it true that we no longer need to floss our teeth? Can we really whiten our teeth with baking soda and lemon? Can we make our own braces at home? Are there dentists in Augusta who condone oil-pulling as a treatment for gum disease?

With so much health and beauty information available to us on TV and online, it’s sometimes very challenging to determine what we should and should not believe when it comes to taking care of our dental health. There is some truth out there, but there is also quite a bit of false or misleading information, so it pays to think before you act in order to ensure that you are making a safe and wise decision about your smile. To begin separating dental fact from fiction, consider these tips:

• Watch out for ‘miracle cures’ and secret ingredients.
• In print, online, and even on TV, look for the fine print that says ‘advertisement’. This wording can typically be found along the top or bottom edge of the page or screen.
• Determine the source. Reputable news sources tend to be more reliable than tabloid publications, but there are many websites that are very skilled at imitating trusted news sources. Train your eyes to spot fake or imitation news outlets.
• Find out what they want from you. Be cautious when it comes to sharing your personal information, especially on the internet. When in doubt, read the fine print that explains the site’s privacy policy and disclosures.
• Check the date. Make sure that you aren’t reading out-of-date information. Healthcare information is constantly being reviewed and updated for accuracy and safety. Old or outdated health information can be dangerous.
• Ask your dentist. Your dentist wants to keep you educated and informed about the latest and greatest advancements in dentistry– as it pertains to your health. Some procedures and materials perform best in certain situations. Having a discussion with your dentist prior to making a decision or a purchase can protect your safety as well as your wallet.

If you have questions about a dental topic that you’ve seen online, on TV, or in a local Augusta publication, consult a dentist for advice today.