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Many people turn to the internet as a resource for advice on many things, from home improvement hacks to makeup tips to even health and oral hygiene advice.
With the rise of social media, it’s easy to come across viral trends that promise to be effective but can secretly be detrimental to your health—and people may not know until it’s too late. Want to know which fads to stay away from? Here are five popular trends that are bad for your teeth.
Lemon Detox Recipes
Lemons have become a prime ingredient in “detox” juices and water infusions, both of which have become increasingly popular in recent years. Celebrities and influencers claim it’s the key to removing “toxins” from your body. While lemons are naturally rich in vitamin C, their acidity can damage your teeth. Beware of any recipes that advise you to suck on a lime or drink a glass of what’s mostly lemon juice.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Many people claim that apple cider vinegar has a wide range of health benefits from losing weight to curing hiccups. Influencers and celebrities promote drinking a tablespoon of pure vinegar once a day or using it to brush your teeth to remove stains and plaque.
However, consuming apple cider vinegar increases your risk of cavities and can cause the tooth’s enamel to erode over time. Ideally, you shouldn’t drink it at all, but if you do, you should thoroughly rinse your mouth with water immediately after ingesting apple cider vinegar and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.
Charcoal Toothpaste
Charcoal toothpaste is a new product on the market that has emerged in recent years. It claims to absorb toxins and stains, resulting in healthy gums and white teeth.
However, studies show that there is not enough evidence to confirm that it’s effective or safe to use on your teeth. Charcoal toothpaste contains abrasive ingredients which can wear away enamel and put your teeth at a higher risk for cavities.
Fluoride-Free Toothpaste
Suspicions about fluoride have increased in recent years with some consumers claiming it can cause cancer, dementia, and diabetes. Although these claims have been disproven many times, new fluoride-free toothpaste is now readily available for consumers.
Studies show that people who use fluoride toothpaste experience fewer cavities, are at lower risk for dental decay, and have better overall oral health compared to those who use fluoride-free.
Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is a practice that has been around for thousands of years—you swish oil in your mouth, usually coconut or sesame, for up to 20 minutes each day. People claim it prevents tooth decay by pulling toxins out of your mouth. However, studies show that oil pulling does not whiten teeth or prevent decay any more than the average mouthwash. While this practice is generally safe, it can be harmful if you swallow the oil following the process because it contains collected bacteria.
Have you considered trying out any of these popular trends? If so, hopefully, this guide has opened your eyes to the dangers. It’s always best to consult with your dentist if you want to add something new to your oral health regimen.
About Lifetime Dental
Lifetime Dental provides patients with a quality dental care experience that is more than just fancy technology and advanced services. Dr. Frank Michitti and his team pride themselves on providing comprehensive, personalized care that leaves everyone smiling. If you would like to consult with Dr. Michitti about a new oral hygiene technique you want to try, contact him via his website or at (413) 786-4400.