Clearing up mouth misconceptions.

Many myths persist concerning taking care of one's teeth. In an attempt to put to rest some of those misconceptions, faculty members in the College of Dentistry, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, offer the following:

It doesn't make any difference what type of brush one uses--soft bristles or hard, they're all the same. "A soft bristle brush is much preferred . . .," indicates Doug Hall, assistant professor of periodontics. "Improper brushing with a hard bristle brush may cause damage to both the gum and teeth."

Up and down or sideways, it doesn't matter how one brushes. "People always should use a rolling and circular motion when they brush their teeth," Hall emphasizes. "Using a sideways scrubbing motion, especially with a firm brush, can drive some of the gum tissue away and, in time, may affect the tooth structure itself."

Regular visits to the dentist aren't necessary, as long as you're not having problems with your teeth. "Preventive maintenance for your teeth is cost effective," notes Michael Rohrer, assistant dean for research. "For example, a small cavity in a molar can be repaired with a simple filling for around $50. If the problem is allowed to continue, however, and the decay gets into the pulp of the tooth requiring a root canal and a crown, the costs can soar to around 900."

Flossing really isn't necessary after a good brushing. "Use of dental floss definitely helps prevent gum disease because brushing removes only about half of the plaque from the surface of a tooth," points out Robert Carson, chairman of the Department of Periodontics. "To prevent tooth decay and gum disease, it is necessary to physically remove bacteria from between the teeth--something a toothbrush can't do."

You can't floss too much or too hard. "While a conscientious effort should be made to lower the floss beneath the gum line comfortably until it meets resistance, it's not good to force the floss under the gum line until it hurts because that could cause damage to the gum tissue," Carson says.

It's okay to use an aspirin to battle a toothache. "It's...