With the advent of winter, and the rise in infections with colds and influenza, many are trying to search for tips and tricks that help keep viruses away.
According to Russia Today, although some of the suggested tricks may be useful in boosting our immune system, there are worrying trends that have a negative impact on teeth.
Dentist Payal Bhalla explains the impact of some “health fads” on teeth, and what we can do about it.
Apple cider vinegar
“Apple cider vinegar potions have become very popular in recent years, with celebrities and influencers alike citing it as having detoxifying properties and aiding in weight loss,” says Dr. Payal, Clinical Director of Quest Dental. It may offer some benefits to your health, but it may be harmful to your teeth, especially if you drink it daily.”
Vinegar is very acidic and can erode tooth enamel very quickly, which then exposes the yellow layer of dentin underneath. Not only is this extremely harmful to the teeth because enamel is essential for healthy teeth, it will also make them look yellow.”
Oil pull
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice (in India) of gargling with coconut oil, olive oil, or sesame oil.
“While some experts have noted many health benefits of oil pulling, there is no proven evidence that this practice is good for your teeth. In fact, some experts argue that it can exacerbate conditions such as gum disease or tooth decay,” Payal explains.
Also read: “Take care of your tongue” .. 10 necessary tips to maintain the health of your teeth
Lemon water
Payal points out: “While drinking lemon water every morning carries many detoxifying properties in your digestive system, this daily practice can have a significant impact on your teeth. Drinking lemon water regularly may cause enamel erosion or tooth decay due to the high content. Of the acid in citrus fruits. Not only that, excessive alcohol intake can also lead to heartburn, nausea, headaches and other GERD symptoms.”
age
As long as it’s part of a healthy, balanced diet, drinking some fruit juices can help keep the body healthy, but for teeth Payal says that “when you drink large amounts of juice over a long period of time, it can have a huge impact.” “On your teeth and cause long-term damage. The high sugar content that comes from these juices after you drink them daily can erode tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay. The bacteria that remain on the teeth after drinking the juice may irritate the gums and can eventually lead to gum disease.” .
“alternative” milk
Many people have moved to switch from dairy milk to “alternative” milks, such as oat, soy and almond milk, and although there are benefits to switching, especially for those who are lactose intolerant, there is also some harm, Payal says: “Those who drink Dairy-free milk may be deficient in calcium and other nutrients that are good for the mouth, and a lack of calcium may put you at risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Moreover, it has been observed that some types of non-dairy milk such as soy milk can cause oral bacteria to produce six times more dairy acid, which is worrisome because more acid means more chance of enamel erosion and cavities.
Charcoal toothpaste
“Charcoal toothpaste has become popular due to social media platforms, such as TikTok and Instagram,” says Payal, “but dentists are still skeptical and do not recommend replacing regular fluoride toothpaste with charcoal toothpaste.”
More research is needed on the long-term effects of this type of toothpaste, but one thing that has been noted is that this is a very abrasive material, and while it does help remove surface stains, it is very harsh, so it may be slowly tearing away the enamel of your teeth. .