We hear so much about our teeth — what is good for them and what we should absolutely avoid. But is what you know about good dental habits accurate? Find out here. We think some of the answers may surprise you.

To take this quiz, you have to be honest with yourself. Don’t cheat! Decide whether the statement is true or false and write your answers down somewhere before checking through the answers. Are you ready? Good luck!

Statements

1

The only things that can cause teeth to decay are sugary foods and drinks.
True or False?

2

Milk contains calcium, which helps build strong teeth, so drinking it after brushing won’t damage teeth.
True or False?

Brushing teeth. Photo credit: Huffington Post

3

Raisins (mixed fruit) are better for teeth than chocolate.
True or False?

4

If my teeth feel okay, I don’t need to see the dentist.
True or False?

5

It is difficult to maintain good dental health.
True or False?

Answers

1

The only things that can cause teeth to decay are sugary foods and drinks.
False!
Tooth decay is mainly caused by foods and drinks which contain carborhydrates that can ferment. This includes all sugary, milky and starchy foods and drinks, sweets, biscuits, fruit, vegetables, milk and bread. Limit the rate at which your teeth are exposed to these foods that cause tooth decay; try to stick to meal times to reduce the frequency of your food and drink.

2

Milk contains calcium, which helps build strong teeth, so drinking it after brushing won’t damage teeth.
False!
Yes, milk contains calcium which can help build strong teeth; however, the lactose in the milk contains fermentable carbohydrates which can be broken down by the bacteria in your mouth to produce acid. This acid can then dissolve away some of the enamel surface of your teeth leading to decay. If you really need to drink something after brushing, choose water.

3

Raisins (mixed fruit) are better for teeth than chocolate.
False!
Again, all foods and drinks that contain fermentable carbohydrates, including sugars, starches and milk products, can increase the risk of tooth decay. Sticky foods that get stuck in the tooth fissures can also cause some damage, so make sure you brush them away as soon as you can to prevent your teeth from decaying.

4

If my teeth feel okay, I don’t need to see the dentist.
False!
You should know that it is very important to visit your dentist every 6-12 months or as advised by your dentist. You should not wait until something goes wrong before you run to your dentist. They have a big part to play in keeping your mouth healthy.

5

It is difficult to maintain good dental health.
False!
It is not difficult to maintain good oral health.  To keep your teeth in good shape, all you need to do is brush twice a day, reduce the number of times you eat and drink, and see your dentist every 6-12 months or as advised.

How many did you answer correctly?