Nowadays, it’s easier than ever to find information on several different things. From home improvement hacks to makeup recommendations to weight loss tips, the internet has become a great resource for anything you could need! Unfortunately, some of the most popular trends that are circulating can have detrimental effects on your smile – and you may realize it until it’s too late. Read on to learn which five trends are bad for your teeth.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Many people claim that drinking (or gargling) apple cider vinegar provides multiple health benefits. It can calm an upset stomach, cure hiccups, soothe a sore throat, help you lose weight… the list goes on and on. While those advantages may sound tempting, the risks are not worth it. Prolonged contact with the acidic substance can increase your risk of cavities and erose your enamel over time, making it easier for bacteria to penetrate.
Lemon Juice Detox
One of the most popular detoxes is known as the lemon juice detox. Advocates claim that it helps cleanse the body of toxins and help you lose 20 pounds in 10 days. However, lemons are extremely acidic. Since they’re the star ingredient in these drinks, the acidity can severely damage your teeth. It’s a good idea to avoid recipes that advise you to suck on a lemon or drink a glass of what’s essentially just lemon juice.
Sparkling Water
While sparkling water is certainly a healthier alternative to soda, it still poses a risk to your oral health. The acidity can damage your teeth and weaken your enamel, making it easier for bacteria to cause cavities. If you must indulge in this fizzy drink, consider drinking it with a meal so that your saliva can counteract the acid it contains.
Kombucha
People have been drinking kombucha, or “fermented tea”, for well over 2,000 years. Health benefits attributed to the drink include improved digestion, immune system stimulation, weight loss, and arthritis and cancer prevention. Because of its acidity and sugar content, it can harm your pearly whites. The drink can wear down your enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to cavity-causing bacteria.
Activated Charcoal
If you walk down the oral hygiene aisle at your local store, you’ll find numerous products that contain activated charcoal. It claims to absorb toxins and stains, promising to give you healthy gums and white teeth. However, recent studies found that there isn’t sufficient evidence to deem these products or even confirm they’re safe to use on teeth. Since charcoal is an abrasive material, it can put your smile at risk by damaging your enamel.
Did you recently come across a viral health trend online? Take a second to think about how it can affect your smile before jumping on the bandwagon. When in doubt, ask your dentist for their expert opinion – they’ll be more than happy to help!
About the Practice
At Tamborello Dental Associates, we offer state-of-the-art dental care for patients of all ages in and around the Houston area. Our team is passionate about educating patients to help them make confident and well-informed decisions for their oral health. If you have any questions about a popular trend, don’t hesitate to ask us. You can make an appointment via our website or call (713) 522-7540.