While it may be tempting to join in on the new thing that everyone seems to be doing, think twice about hopping on the bandwagon when it comes to dental trends. Here we’ll explain the potential dangers of a common dental fads.
- Rinsing with Hydrogen Peroxide
- Brushing Your Teeth with Activated Charcoal
- Oil Pulling
- Adorning Your Teeth with Gems & Grills
Hydrogen peroxide is used in many teeth-whitening products, including those that are approved by the American Dental Association. However, just because it’s used in these products does not mean that it’s safe or effective to rinse with plain hydrogen peroxide. In ADA-approved products, hydrogen peroxide is used in a controlled and safe amount. But if you use hydrogen peroxide as a rinse, the direct exposure of such a large quantity can irritate your gums and damage your teeth.
There is some anecdotal evidence that activated charcoal can clean and whiten teeth. Proponents claim that activated charcoal’s porous nature can bind to toxins and plaque on your teeth. However, the ADA has not yet found clinical evidence that activated charcoal is safe or effective at whitening your teeth. They actually caution patients against using this substance due to its abrasiveness, which could damage your enamel. Enamel damage can make your teeth appear more yellow as the enamel wears away and the naturally yellow dentin layer shows through. If you’re interested in trying a charcoal toothpaste, consult with our expert team. Although brushing with it a few times a week may be safe, we recommend a traditional fluoridated toothpaste for optimal oral health.
The ancient practice of oil pulling involves swishing sunflower, sesame, grapeseed, or coconut oil in your mouth for about 20 minutes to get rid of bad breath and harmful oral bacteria, and to whiten teeth. Based on current evidence, the ADA does not recommend oil pulling as a replacement for the time-tested oral health practices of daily brushing and flossing. Brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits are proven to help prevent bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay, while oil pulling is not. But feel free to talk to Dr. Abidin or Dr. Cao if you’re interested in trying oil pulling as a supplemental oral health practice.
Tooth gems are colorful stones that adhere to your teeth, and grills are metallic teeth coverings. While both of these may seem stylish and cool, they are incredibly bad for your teeth. The tooth gems are placed on teeth with a very strong and harmful adhesive material that can destroy enamel and cause tooth discoloration. And grills easily trap food particles and plaque, which will increase your risk of cavities and gum disease.
If you have questions about other oral health fads, contact our dental office in Westerville, OH!
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