These days it’s not uncommon to see tons of new ideas, trends, and products flooding the Internet and grabbing the attention of people everywhere. There is a life hack, health tip, or bit of advice for virtually every topic—especially oral care. But with so many people sharing their stories, thoughts, and feelings about some of these things, how do you know which ones will safely work and which ones are totally bogus? Keep reading to learn more from your dentist in Collinsville about five of the latest oral health trends that actually spell bad news for your smile.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar touts many healthful benefits such as calming an upset stomach, curing the hiccups, soothing a sore throat, lowering cholesterol, losing weight, and boosting energy. But as tempting as these benefits might be, there are still some oral health risks associated with consuming it including a higher risk of cavities and acid erosion to your teeth. A good way to offset the pH imbalance inside of your mouth that apple cider vinegar causes is to drink a glass of water afterwards.
Activated Charcoal
Many new products these days contain activated charcoal as an ingredient and claim they’re able to fully absorb stains and toxins from your teeth (and despite the pitch-black color of said products). But there hasn’t been enough research done to deduce if this is entirely true. However, one thing that’s been proven is the enamel abrasion that many of these charcoal-containing products can cause to your teeth.
Lemon Juice Detox
People swear by the lemon juice detox—this method is supposedly excellent for quickly losing weight. But lemon juice is incredibly acidic, so exposing your teeth to it for days at a time can wreak havoc on your enamel. Plus, skipping meals during cleansing periods means that your mouth isn’t chewing as often and producing less saliva, which can lead to bacteria accumulation.
Kombucha
Kombucha has been consumed for centuries for many different purposes. It’s excellent for detoxification. It’s useful for improving digestion and stimulating the body’s immune system. It can even help to prevent arthritis and cancer. But the drink is high in both sugar content and acids, meaning that it can damage your enamel and leave your teeth vulnerable to cavities.
Sparkling Water
There’s no doubt that sparkling water is better for your teeth than other drinks out there, like soda or coffee. But that doesn’t mean it’s entirely risk-free! The beverage is still quite acidic, so it’s best to consume it during a meal so your saliva has a chance to counteract the acids.
Just because something is popular doesn’t necessarily mean it’s good for you! Knowing what trends and fads to avoid and taking proper care of your teeth is the best way to ensure a lasting, healthy smile.
About the Practice
Collinsville Dental Associates proudly serves patients and families in the Collinsville, VA area. The practice is fortunate enough to house five incredibly skilled specialists: Dr. Michael Lavinder, Dr. Albert Payne, Dr. Christopher Payne, Dr. Andrew Hessler, and Dr. Aimn Abbasi. Together they combine several decades of experience to provide patients with an exceptional level of dental care. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule a visit, feel free to contact the practice online or over the phone: (276) 647-1494.