When you consider harmful trends, you might think of social media stunts. You know, “viral” things like the Tide Pod Challenge, the cinnamon challenge, or the choking game. Maybe your mind goes to the pranks performed by Johnny Knoxville. However, did you know there are popular trends that are bad for your teeth? Some DIY health items can increase the risks to your oral health. Your Marion dentist, though, is here to keep your mouth safe. Read on to learn three current health trends that hurt your pearly whites.
Kombucha
Depending on your social circles, you may have heard friends talk about kombucha. It’s a fizzy, sweet-and-sour drink made with black tea, supposedly able to prevent health problems. People claim it can improve digestion, stimulate your immune system, and even stop arthritis and cancer.
Whether these benefits are real or not, kombucha doesn’t help teeth. Due to its acidity, it makes your tooth enamel vulnerable to decay and cavities. Its sugar content is also fairly high, as much as 10 grams per serving in some brands. As you’d expect, then, the sugary liquid interacts with bacteria to produce acids harmful to teeth.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another beverage with vaunted benefits. Many say it cures upset stomachs and can even lower your cholesterol.
Unfortunately, drinking it will likely ruin your teeth. Like kombucha, apple cider vinegar causes acid erosion to teeth and other dental work (think crowns and veneers). It, therefore, raises your chance of cavities and enamel loss.
To bring your mouth’s pH value back to neutral, you should quickly rinse with water after drinking apple cider vinegar.
Activated Charcoal
Even DIY dental products can end up hurting your teeth. One of these is activated charcoal, which supporters say can absorb toxins and stains to make your smile whiter.
In reality, this argument doesn’t hold weight. According to the ADA’s literature review of studies on activated charcoal, there isn’t any evidence it removes toxins or whitens teeth. In fact, the research points toward the opposite — it actively harms your pearly whites.
In truth, activated charcoal wears away tooth enamel due to being abrasive. Dentists have even compared it to rubbing sandpaper on your teeth!
A trend doesn’t have to be outlandish to damage your oral health. Talk to your local dentist before you commit yourself to the “next big thing.”
About the Author
Dr. Eric Buck is a dentist based in Marion, OH, having earned his DDS from the Ohio State University’s College of Dentistry. He prides himself as a member of the American Dental Association, the Ohio Dental Association, the Columbus Dental Society, and the American Orthodontists Society. Given his knowledge base, he specializes in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including dental emergencies. Dr. Buck currently practices at Cross Creek Dental Care and can be reached at his website or by phone at (740)-725-8000.