In the quest for wellness and vitality, many Australians are turning to health hacks that promise a boost to their morning routine. One such hack that has gained immense popularity, thanks in part to celebrity endorsements, is the practice of starting the day with a glass of lemon water. Icons like Naomi Campbell, Miranda Kerr, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Drew Barrymore have all been vocal about their morning ritual, and even Beyoncé has invested in a lemon water brand. But before you join the citrus bandwagon, dental professionals have a word of caution that might just sour your sip.
While lemon water is touted for its potential benefits, such as aiding digestion, improving hydration, and providing a dose of vitamin C, dentists are raising alarms about its less-discussed effects on dental health. Dr Mikaela Chinotti, a dentist with over a decade of experience, spoke to Yahoo Lifestyle about the risks associated with this acidic beverage. ‘Over time, this practice is likely to affect your dental health, causing side effects of tooth erosion and sensitivity due to the high acidity,’ she warns. ‘From a dental perspective, it is not recommended to be drinking lemon water as part of your daily routine.’
The acidity in lemon juice can indeed be detrimental to tooth enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. Enamel erosion can lead to increased sensitivity, cavities, and even tooth breakage or cracks. Dental therapist Anna Peterson compares the effects of lemon water on teeth to those of full-fat coke or fizzy drinks, which are notorious for wearing away enamel.
If lemon water is a non-negotiable part of your morning, there are ways to mitigate the risks. Dr Chinotti suggests rinsing with or drinking plain water immediately after consuming lemon water. Another tip is to use a straw to minimise contact with your teeth. Dr Ellie Phillips, who shares dental advice with her 733k social media followers, recommends using sugar-free mint or gum to stimulate saliva production, which can help replenish the minerals lost from your teeth.
Contrary to what you might think, brushing your teeth immediately after drinking lemon water is not advisable. Dr Chinotti explains that it’s best to wait up to 60 minutes before brushing to avoid increasing tooth wear and damage from the acidic exposure.
Lemon water isn’t the only seemingly healthy choice that could be secretly undermining your dental health. Dr Chinotti points out that many people consume excess sugar daily due to hidden sugars in foods marketed as healthy. Phrases like ‘no refined sugar’ or ‘made with real fruit’ can be misleading, leading to increased sugar intake and a heightened risk of tooth decay.
Peterson highlights other snacks that are surprisingly harmful to teeth, such as raisins, crackers, and smoothies. These foods may appear healthy, but they can be packed with sugar and acidity, doubling the threat to your dental well-being.
Given the potential risks associated with popular health hacks like lemon water and the prevalence of hidden sugars, it’s crucial to maintain a robust oral care routine. Dr Chinotti recommends using effective toothpaste, such as Colgate Total Active Prevention, to protect against the consequences of these dietary choices and avoid a painful bill at your next dental appointment.
While lemon water remains a popular choice for many, it’s important to consider both its benefits and potential drawbacks. Being informed about how certain health habits impact overall well-being allows for better decision-making.
What are your thoughts on this? Have you experienced any benefits or drawbacks from drinking lemon water? Do you take any precautions to protect your dental health? Share your insights in the comments below!
Also read: The cheesy trick to save your teeth from Diet Coke damage
