Social media comes with numerous benefits, from spreading awareness about important causes to easily connecting with your friends and loved ones. Unfortunately, it also comes with a great deal of misinformation. With the rise of platforms like TikTok, more and more people are following advice from content creators instead of professionals. So, it’s important to keep an eye out for trends that are bad for your teeth. Here are a few.
Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Straight
In recent years, content creators have made countless claims about apple cider vinegar, from its ability to soothe a sore throat to its weight management benefits. Naturally, many people are tempted to jump on the bandwagon, incorporating apple cider vinegar shots into their morning routines. Unfortunately, this can wreak havoc on your teeth. The 3.3 to 3.5 pH level is low enough that it can begin to dissolve your enamel and increase your chances of developing cavities. If you’re curious about this trend, then make sure to dilute the apple cider vinegar in some water, use a straw, and rinse your mouth thoroughly afterward.
Detoxing with Lemon Water
Some lemon water detoxes claim that you can lose 20 pounds in 10 days. That’s a lot! However, they don’t include the detrimental effects on your teeth. While lemons are extremely acidic, the additives (like maple syrup) are loaded with sugar, making this beverage an especially dangerous combination. Furthermore, cleanses that don’t include any solid foods result in a decrease in your saliva production, which increases your chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease. In short, it’s best for your oral and overall health to pursue weight management with a combination of nutrient-dense foods and routine exercise instead.
Using Activated Charcoal to Remove Stains
Although a slight yellow hue is completely natural, people are obsessed with having bright, white teeth. Instead of visiting a dentist for a professional teeth whitening treatment, some content creators recommend using activated charcoal to remove stubborn stains. Again, the videos include the “pros” and fail to mention any of the cons. In addition to no scientific evidence deeming activated charcoal effective, it may not even be safe to use on your teeth at all. The abrasive nature can actually remove your enamel, leaving your teeth looking more discolored and brittle. So, don’t participate in this trend. If you want whiter teeth, schedule an appointment with your cosmetic dentist!
Social media platforms are a great place to connect with friends and family, but they aren’t a great place to get advice about how to care for your smile. So, if you see a trend you’re interested in participating in, make sure to talk to your dentist first!
About the Practice
Our team at Aesthetic & Family Dentistry of Washington wants you to feel empowered and informed when it comes to your oral health. That’s why we focus on patient education and are here to answer any questions you have about your dental needs and smile goals. If you have a question about how to care for your smile or you’d like to schedule an appointment, then don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (202) 364-8989.