Whether it’s for fitness or skin care, you may have seen or heard of numerous products that provide various health benefits. Although many of them can improve your overall well-being, some can be detrimental to your smile. Not only can they affect the condition of your pearly whites, but they can increase the risk of more serious oral health issues. Read on to learn five popular trends that are bad for your teeth and why you should avoid them!
#1: Apple Cider Vinegar
Many people claim apple cider vinegar provides several health benefits, such as curing hiccups, soothing a sore throat, lowering cholesterol, and even losing weight. However, this liquid is highly acidic, which can increase your chances of getting cavities or damaging your tooth enamel. If this occurs, your smile can become more vulnerable to bacteria and even infection. Should you drink this often, be sure to at least rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to return the pH to neutral.
#2: Activated Charcoal
Countless dental hygiene products contain activated charcoal as a key ingredient for whitening your smile. While it may be able to absorb stains and toxins from your teeth, this agent is also abrasive. By using this frequently, you can end up wearing down your enamel as though you were using sandpaper on your pearly whites. If you want to brighten your teeth, be sure to consult your dentist so they can provide a safer method.
#3: Lemon Juice Detox
This product involves fresh lemon/lime juice and maple syrup to help cleanse the body of toxins. These ingredients are also either high in acidity or sugar! The detox method also requires a liquid-only diet, meaning you won’t eat any food for several days. Refraining from chewing can reduce saliva production, which is essential for fighting off bacteria, so you can end up at a higher risk of cavities, acid erosion, and gum disease.
#4: Kombucha
This drink has been used for centuries and benefits various health functions like digestion and the immune system. However, it is also high in sugar content and acidity. These components will wear away your enamel and increase the likelihood of bacteria buildup and cavities.
#5: Sparkling Water
Although sparkling water isn’t as harmful to your teeth as sodas and alcoholic drinks, it is still acidic. This is especially the case with the flavored types that are usually added with citric acid to make orange, lemon, or lime flavors. Drinking this often can lower the pH in your mouth, allowing bacteria to thrive and feed on your enamel.
While these popular trends may be tempting, it’s best to avoid them so that you can maintain a clean and healthy smile. By keeping proper dental hygiene and a regular nutritional diet, you should be able to enjoy better oral and overall well-being in the long run!
About the Author
Dr. Anthony Giamberardino is an active member of several organizations such as the American Dental Association, the International College of Dentistry, and the Massachusetts Dental society. He studied at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and continues to seek advanced training to refine his techniques. He provides outstanding and comprehensive treatments, including dental checkups/cleanings, gum disease therapy, teeth whitening, and veneers to help preserve your dental health. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call 781-396-3800.