From the newest fashion lines to the latest healthy diets, you can find all the recent popular trends throughout social media. With most people watching various influencers, they’re likely to be tempted to try something claiming to be beneficial to their well-being. But did you know there are some fads that can be detrimental to your dental health? Keep reading from your dentist in Portage on five trendy things that can harm your smile.
#1: Activated Charcoal
There are numerous teeth cleaning products containing activated charcoal, claiming to safely absorb toxins and stains alike. However, the American Dental Association revealed there isn’t sufficient evidence to back these claims. Additionally, this substance is also abrasive, which can increase your risk of permanently damaging your teeth enamel.
#2: Kombucha
This is a type of tea that’s primarily designed to detoxify your digestive system and improve various other health conditions—like immune system stimulation, arthritis and cancer prevention, and weight loss. The problem with this beverage is the high level of acidity and sugar content. With a low pH level, you could risk weakening your enamel, making it susceptible to cavity-causing bacteria.
#3: Sparkling Water
While sparkling water won’t stain your teeth like sodas, it is still acidic—especially if you drink those with citric flavors, like lime and orange. If you do enjoy this beverage, it’s best not to sip it throughout the day, as this can create a low pH environment in your mouth. Try having it with a meal to ensure proper saliva flow can counteract the acid.
#4: Lemon Juice Detox
Most advocates of lemon juice detox claim it cleanses the body of toxins and helps with weight loss. It can be a major issue for your teeth, however, as it is both highly acidic and sugary. Plus, the trend calls for avoiding solid food for 10 days, meaning you won’t chew. Without munching on anything, saliva production will decrease and allow bacteria to thrive.
#5: Apple Cider Vinegar
Though apple cider vinegar is known for its various health benefits, the low pH level can lead to tooth erosion or damage to dental work. If you plan on drinking this, you should at least rinse with water to neutralize the pH in your mouth.
There are plenty of popular trends that claim to be advantageous to your overall health, but do be cautious with those that can harm your smile. And if you aren’t sure which fads could cause tooth damage, always speak with your dentist for the best preventive measure!
About the Author
Dr. Danny Hayes is an active member of various prestigious institutions including the Chicago Dental Society, the American and Indiana Dental Associations, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Even after earning his dental degree from the Temple University School of Dentistry in Philadelphia, he still pursues continuing education to provide outstanding and comprehensive dental care. He offers a multitude of advanced treatments such as checkups, cleanings, and cosmetic dentistry to help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile. If you’d like to schedule a visit, visit his website or call him at 219-763-6878.