3 Popular Trends That’ll Hurt Your Oral Health

Thanks to social media, it seems like anything can go “viral” these days. Whether on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok, news worldwide can quickly get countless people’s attention. This reality especially applies to health products, which can claim to transform your body overnight. However, did you know there are popular trends that are bad for your teeth? The latest fad item could end up hurting your oral health. To learn more, here are three recent health trends that cause tooth damage.

Sparkling Water

You might not think sparkling water is bad for you. After all, it’s water! While a bit fizzy, the drink acts as a tasty substitute for soda.

Unfortunately, this “fizzy water” is highly acidic. When sipped, it weakens tooth enamel and raises your risk of getting cavities. Worse, some brands add citric acid to give it a fruit flavoring. As a result, the water can get as acidic as sodas and sports drinks.

Kombucha

As it turns out, people have been drinking kombucha for over 2000 years. It’s only recently that more have it for health benefits like improved digestion, arthritis and cancer prevention, and weight loss.

Like sparkling water, though, kombucha’s acid levels can damage enamel. Drinking too much of it will erode your enamel and make your teeth vulnerable to bacteria.

Adding to the problem is that the drink is high in sugar. Store-bought minds can have up to 10 grams per serving, with most bottles holding over two helpings. Consequently, kombucha’s sugary sweetness can cause the fast growth of harmful mouth bacteria.

Activated Charcoal

A few DIY teeth whiteners rely on something called activated charcoal. According to supporters, this material can absorb toxins and stains to make your smile whiter.

The American Dental Association, in contrast, says otherwise. Namely, the ADA doesn’t believe activated charcoal detoxifies or whitens teeth. On the contrary, they think it actually harms your pearly whites.

Dentists can back up this opinion with evidence. Many have found that the charcoal wears away tooth enamel due to being abrasive. Some even compare using it to rubbing sandpaper on your teeth!

Fast-traveling information isn’t always reliable, even if it’s health-related. That said, talk to your local dentist about trends like those above to better protect your smile.

About the Author

Dr. Robert. E. Tafel is one of Duncanville’s top dentists. He and his staff specialize in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, as well as specialties like orthodontics and emergency services. From kids to adults, they provide these treatments to dental patients of all ages. As such, you can expect excellent and comprehensive care. Dr. Tafel currently practices at Bear Creek Family Dentistry and can be reached at his website or by phone at (972)-490-1600.