There are many misconceptions about teeth maintenance that have circled around for years, and it’s time to clear the air. While it’s recommended to visit the dentist twice a year for cleanings or if you’re experiencing pain, many people turn to the internet for help with dental issues, which can often lead to widespread dental myths. Keep your well-being in check, and separate your dental facts from fiction.

Myth: Gum bleeding is common, so it is pointless to worry.

Any sign of bleeding could mean many things—from the likelihood of gingivitis to lesser causes such as abrasive brushing or too little flossing. Either way, don’t label this sign as nothing. If you notice any bleeding from your gums, don’t procrastinate. Consult a dentist, even if you’ve been practicing some questionable dental habits.

Myth: Expectant mothers should avoid the dentist.

There are many misconceptions about pregnancy and dental health. The biggest one is avoiding the dentist altogether. A woman should talk to her dentist about her pregnancy and continue with regular dental appointments. Her dentist may even recommend additional appointments during this time, as pregnant women may develop gingivitis and experience other dental issues during pregnancy. This is due in part to changing hormone levels as well as the likelihood of morning sickness, both of which can have an impact on one’s mouth.

Myth: Brushing more is better.

As they say, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. This adage can be applied to your dental health, too, as you don’t want to overdo it. Brushing too vigorously is all too common, and brushing more than twice a day could easily harm your teeth and your gums. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles, or consider an electric toothbrush, and stick to the general rule of thumb of brushing morning and night to avoid going overboard. If you had a particularly potent meal, turn to sugar-free gum, which increases salivary flow in the mouth and can help neutralize and wash away the acids in chewed foods.

Myth: Sugar is the only cause of cavities.

While sugar is one of the main culprits of those pesky cavities, it isn’t the only factor. Dialing down on the candy and chocolate bar habit certainly goes a long way, but there is a crop of unhealthy foods that are just as likely to cause issues with your teeth. Chips, salty crackers, and other starchy snacks could also lead to tooth decay. To help reduce your risk of cavities, brush regularly and avoid frequent snacking and sugary drinks. In addition, talk to your dentist about other tips that can help you—your teeth will thank you in the long run.

Myth: Whitening is harmful to the teeth.

Most scientific evidence refutes the myth that teeth whitening is harmful to your teeth. The myth stems largely from the fact that whitening can increase the likelihood of teeth sensitivity. While tooth sensitivity can be annoying, a simple solution could be to cut back on your intake of hot drinks or ice cream. Another easy remedy is to try a desensitizing toothpaste, which contains compounds that block sensation from the tooth to the nerve. Discuss teeth whitening with your dentist to see what options are right for you.

For more information on ways to keep up your dental hygiene, visit ada.org