There is always a new fad circulating around online. However, you can’t believe everything that you see on the internet, as there are all sorts of misinformation out there. It can be difficult to tell the difference between a helpful hack and something that can actually be quite dangerous for your smile. You don’t want to try out a trend only to find out that you are harming your oral health. Here are a few fads that you should definitely be wary of.
Apple Cider Vinegar
There are numerous different health benefits of consuming apple cider vinegar. Whether you are looking to sooth an upset stomach, sooth a sore throat, or lower your cholesterol, there is someone out there who will claim that this remedy can help. However, apple cider vinegar isn’t the best for your teeth. Your teeth are vulnerable to acidic substances, and this type of vinegar is so acidic that it can cause your enamel to wear away over time. This means an increased risk of developing cavities. If you’re consuming apple cider vinegar, make sure that you’re rinsing your mouth with water afterwards to help the pH of your mouth return to normal.
Lemon Juice Detox
This is a popular detox that is used as an effort to lose weight. The recipe includes a mixture of lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper, and water. Just like apple cider vinegar, this mixture is very acidic, therefore increasing your risk for tooth decay. Another issue is that this 10-day cleanse only includes liquids. Without chewing solid food, you aren’t producing as much saliva. You need to have a significant amount of saliva to fight off cavities, gum disease, and acid erosion.
Sparkling Water
Sparkling water is becoming increasingly popular. It’s a great alternative to drinking soda, but sparking water isn’t completely risk-free. Sparkling water is acidic, so it creates a low pH environment in your mouth, both weakening the enamel and making it easier for you to develop cavities.
Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented tea that has benefits including detoxification, improved digestion, immune system stimulation, arthritis relief, and cancer prevention. However, kombucha is very acidic, and many store-bought brands contain a lot of sugar. This increases your risk for cavities and other oral health issues.
Activated Charcoal
Many new oral hygiene products contain activated charcoal. The idea behind these products is that they absorb toxins and stains, ultimately leading to whiter teeth and healthy gums. However, there is not enough evidence to deem that activated charcoal products are actually effective. These products also tend to be too abrasive for the teeth. This causes the gradual wearing away of enamel. In the end, they are better avoided.
Just because a trend is popular doesn’t mean that it is safe. Be sure that you are doing your own research. Your smile depends on it!
About the Author
Dr. Karl Arakelian is an experienced dentist who has been working in the dental field for nearly 30 years. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and is committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. Currently he is a proud member of the Massachusetts Dental Association. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Bradford, visit his website or call (978) 373-0901.
