There are all sorts of new fads that are circulating the internet on a daily basis. Some of them have some great health benefits and amazing results, but others tend to be bad news. The issue is that it can be difficult to tell the difference between the two. There is so much misinformation out there that the truth can be hard to come by. Continue reading to learn about some of the popular trends out there and why they may not be the best for your oral health.
Apple Cider Vinegar
You have probably already heard about all the different benefits of apple cider vinegar. Whether you have a sore throat, upset stomach, or high cholesterol, there is someone out there who will claim that apple cider vinegar is the answer. Even though it has been shown to have some health benefits, apple cider vinegar isn’t the best for your smile. Your teeth are very vulnerable to acidic substances and this type of vinegar is so acidic that your enamel will erode after too much contact with it. If you are taking part in this trend, make sure that you are giving your smile a rinse afterwards to lower the pH in your mouth.
Lemon Juice Detox
This detox is one that you have probably heard about from your favorite celebrities. Usually, it is used as an effort to lose weight. The recipe includes lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper, and water. Just like apple cider vinegar, this is a very acidic mixture, so it increases your likelihood of developing cavities. This 10-day cleanse also only includes liquids, so you won’t be producing as much saliva as you would if you were chewing solid foods.
Sparkling Water
If you normally reach for a soda during lunch or dinner, sparkling water is a great alternative. However, regular, non-carbonated water is still the best option. Sparkling water is acidic and will lower the pH in your mouth. This means that your enamel could be in trouble. Ultimately, you will be more likely to develop cavities.
Kombucha
This is a fermented tea that recently became more popular because of its many benefits. They include detoxification, improved digestion, immune system stimulation, arthritis relief, and cancer prevention. However, remember that kombucha is also acidic, and store-bought brands can contain a lot of sugar, increasing your risk for cavities and other oral health issues.
Activated Charcoal
Lots of oral hygiene products contain activated charcoal. The claim is that this ingredient absorbs toxins and stains, but there isn’t enough evidence to support this. Many of these products have been shown to be too abrasive for the teeth, causing enamel erosion. They are best avoided.
Don’t let misinformation fool you. By doing your research beforehand, you can prevent oral health issues and keep your smile healthy!
About the Author
Dr. Marc Thomas is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than two decades. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific before serving in the US Army Dental Corps. Currently, he is a member of the American Dental Association, Northern Nevada Dental Society, Seattle Study Club, and the Academy of General Dentistry. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Sparks, visit his website or call (775) 626-3535.