When it comes to things like fashion, makeup, home decor, and more, following a trend can be a fun way to experiment with your creativity and style. But when it comes to your teeth, stick to dentist-approved methods and products. Read on for a list of a few dental fads we recommend avoiding to protect your oral health!
- Charcoal Toothpaste
- Baking Soda & Lemon Juice
- Hydrogen Peroxide
Activated charcoal consists of several ingredients, including crushed coconut shells, coal, and olive pits. In some toothpastes and tooth whitening products, anecdotal evidence claims that activated charcoal binds to plaque and removes stains. While this may or may not be true, the American Dental Association states there is no clinical evidence supporting activated charcoal as a safe or effective tooth whitening method. The abrasive nature of activated charcoal may increase your risk of enamel erosion. Enamel is the outer shield on your teeth that protects the inner layers of your tooth–something that can’t grow back once lost. If there’s a particular charcoal toothpaste you’re interested in trying, consult with our expert team at your next appointment. It may be safe to use 2-3 times a week. We’re here to help you consider your options.
Do-it-yourself health concoctions are all over the internet. However, their prevalence doesn’t make them safe or effective. For example, although a mixture of baking soda and lemon juice is touted by some as a way to clean and whiten teeth, both ingredients can damage your precious enamel. Baking soda is abrasive, whereas lemon juice is highly acidic. These qualities make the two a bad combination if regularly used to brush teeth. Stick to a traditional toothpaste that contains fluoride and baking soda in safe amounts.
Just because hydrogen peroxide is used in certain whitening products doesn’t mean you should use it alone on your teeth. Products containing this ingredient are specially-formulated to be safe and effective when used as directed. While it may seem like a cheap and easy shortcut to simply use a hydrogen peroxide rinse, you run the risk of irritating your gums and causing lasting damage to your teeth.
Consult with Our Expert Team!
Not sure what’s a good idea and what’s not when it comes to your teeth? Here at Hillstream Dental, we’re happy to give advice, answer any dental queries, and recommend products that we know to be both safe and effective. Such as our one-visit professional teeth whitening! Contact us for more information.
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