Who doesn’t like to be on the cool side of what’s going on? It’s fun to have the latest fashion, or be up on the coolest apps for your phone. When it comes to your dental health, however, it can be smart to play it on the safe side. That means making appointments for checkups and cleanings, and practicing great oral hygiene habits at home. Sometimes being a trendsetter can disrupt your smile, and we don’t want that to happen. (And if you have tried some of these trends, don’t be afraid to let your dentist know.)
Avoid This Trend: Vaping
You probably already know tobacco use (smoking, dipping or chewing) is hard on oral health. It can cause your mouth to be dry, it leaves an unattractive odor on your breath, and it stains tooth enamel. It is easy to see why vaping might be an alternative to consider. While it is too early for long-term studies to have been completed, short term studies indicate vaping, just like tobacco, is not healthy for your teeth and mouth (or the rest of your body).
Avoid This Trend: Oral Piercings
Piercings of the lips, tongue and other oral structures are not a good idea, dentally speaking. Every mouth harbors natural bacteria, which are generally kept outside the skin, but can cause infections when they enter the body (such as through the cavity in a tooth, or the broken skin of piercing. The American Dental Association has a thorough rundown of problems that can result from oral piercings. The short version is: your dentist recommends against it.
Avoid This Trend: Activated Charcoal Toothpaste
There is a rumor out there that black toothpaste can whiten your smile. In fact, activated charcoal toothpaste is highly abrasive and is not recommended by most dentists for oral care. The repeated use can thin and weaken tooth enamel, and irritate the gums. When the irritated gums recede, then teeth roots are exposed, causing further avenues for pain and tooth issues. Stick with toothpastes that have the ADA seal of acceptance, meaning they are tested, monitored, and proven to be safe and effective.
Don’t Let A Trend Permanently Harm Your Smile
If you’ve indulged in a trend, and are concerned it may have damaged your teeth or oral health, call for an appointment right away. Contact Absolute Dental Care today in Virginia Beach, VA to schedule a visit by calling (757) 428-7440. We proudly welcome patients Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Suffolk, Hampton, Eastern Shore, and all surrounding communities.
