While it seems like there’s a new health fad promising unbelievable results almost every day, the truth is that most of these trends are harmful. At Reen Chung, DDS, we want our patients to make informed health choices. If a certain dental fad seems too good to be true, it probably is! With that in mind, here are four dental fads you should avoid.
4 Dental Trends to Avoid
- Brushing with Activated Charcoal
- Rinsing with Hydrogen Peroxide
- Oil Pulling
- Brushing with Lemon Juice & Baking Soda
Charcoal seems to be everywhere these days. From activated charcoal lemonade to beauty masks to toothpaste, this material is processed at high temperatures, making it more porous than regular charcoal. Although charcoal toothpaste is marketed as a way to whiten teeth, it is incredibly abrasive and will damage your enamel!
Not only is hydrogen peroxide unsafe to use when cleaning cuts and bleaching hair, using hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth will dangerously affect the health of your gums! If you are looking to whiten your teeth, we offer safe and effective professional whitening services that will deliver dramatic results to make you smile!
Oil pulling is a technique that has been around for many years, but we think its recent resurgence in popularity still warrants calling it a fad. Oil pulling involves swishing oil (often coconut, sesame, or sunflower) in your mouth for 20 minutes to supposedly clean and whiten teeth and freshen breath. However, this ancient practice is no match for ordinary brushing and flossing, which remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh much more efficiently.
Yet another method claimed to whiten teeth, brushing with lemon juice and baking soda will damage your enamel. Lemon juice is highly acidic, baking soda is highly abrasive, and both can weaken your enamel and increase your risk for decay.
Consult with Us Before Starting Any Dental Trend!
Are you struggling with cosmetic or oral health issues that you would like to address? Instead of turning to unproven fads, talk with Dr. Chung and the rest of our team! We can provide you with an individualized treatment plan that will help you meet your smile goals. To ask us any additional questions about safe oral care or to schedule your next appointment, contact our office today.
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