These 4 Drinks Can Harm Your Oral Health

It’s no secret that sugar and acidic drinks can wreak havoc on your teeth, but what if we told you that there are other drinks out there just waiting to do the same damage? While anything excessive is never a good idea, some of those popular detox drinks that many people enjoy as part of a healthy lifestyle can actually be very destructive to our oral health.

To find out more, we consulted dentists who gave us their opinion on the drinks that you should absolutely avoid if you want to protect your teeth. Let’s dive into the heart of the matter!

For better oral health, focus on cariostatic foods.

In terms of dental health, it is important to have a balanced diet and to consume so-called “cariostatic” foods. Cariostatic foods act as a protective barrier for teeth, helping to reduce the risk of developing cavities by reducing acidity in the mouth. These foods include:

• Dairy products like milk, yogurt and cheese.
• Fruits and vegetables like apples, celery and cucumbers.
• Whole grains such as rolled oats and bran flakes.
• Nuts like almonds or peanuts.

All of these foods are rich in vitamins and minerals that can help protect your teeth from cavities. In addition to choosing cariostatic foods, it is also important to take steps to avoid creating an environment where bacteria can grow. This means avoiding sugary drinks, acidic fruits and vegetables (like oranges or tomatoes), processed snacks (like crisps), and sticky sweets.

Recently, two dentists, Dr Bhalla and Dr Konviser, shared with the British media Daily Mail 4 detox drinks that are popular for weight loss, but can promote dental problems if not consumed carefully.

1. Juicing or the liquid diet:

Detox juices, popular with those who want to lose weight fast, can have a significant effect on health and well-being. However, Dr Payal Bhalla, a dentist at Ipswich Dental Practice, warned that this diet was not just short-term, but could cause “long-term damage” to teeth.

This is because the high sugar content of the juice wears down tooth enamel and increases the risk of cavities, which many people ignore when considering this type of diet. Bacteria on the teeth can also set off an unfortunate chain reaction, irritating the gums and leading to tooth loss if not treated properly. It is best to consult a qualified healthcare professional before participating in this or other similar diets.

2. Lemon water:

While many are turning to lemon water as part of a “healthy approach” in the New Year, Dr Bhalla warns that the habit can cause enamel erosion or tooth decay due to its high acidity. This can lead to additional problems such as heartburn, nausea, and headaches, hence the importance for lemon water drinkers to take precautions when consuming.

In particular, brushing your teeth beforehand, using a straw during consumption and rinsing with water immediately after drinking. To enjoy the benefits of lemon water while avoiding its potential risks, it is essential to take the necessary steps.

3. Vegetable milks:

Vegetable milks are becoming more and more popular around the world. Many people give up cow’s milk for health and environmental reasons. Although beneficial in many ways, plant milks can lead to calcium deficiency, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Research has shown that bacteria in the mouth, combined with certain plant milks, produce six times more acid than cow’s milk, leading to an increased risk of enamel erosion and cavities.

4. Apple cider vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar is a popular health tonic that has been around for centuries, due to its ability to improve digestion, boost the immune system, and support heart health. Benefits include gut-friendly bacteria and infection-fighting antibacterial properties, as well as the ability to lower triglyceride levels in the arteries. However, one should be aware of another potential consequence of consuming apple cider vinegar: dental erosion. The acidity of apple cider vinegar can be detrimental if consumed regularly; it quickly erodes tooth enamel and thus puts your oral health at risk. Therefore, although it may offer some health benefits, you should exercise caution when incorporating this ingredient into your diet.