But even if you
brush, use white strips, and visit your dentist twice a year, it may not
be enough.
Here are some
factors that can wreak havoc on your teeth and gums, and put a serious
damper on your smile.
Sports
drinks
In the last
decade, sports beverages have become increasingly popular, but they
aren't great for your teeth.
"Scientific
research has found that the pH levels in many sports drinks could lead
to tooth erosion due to their high concentration of acidic components,
which could wear away at the tooth's enamel," says David F. Halpern,
DMD, FAGD, president of the Academy of General Dentistry.
Additionally,
these drinks are often high in sugars that act as "food" for
acid-producing bacteria, which then sneak into the cracks and crevices
in your teeth, causing cavities and tooth decay.
Bottled
water
Tap water often
contains fluorideabout 60 percent of people in the U.S. have fluoride
in their water supply.
However, most
bottled waters contain less fluoride than recommended for good oral
health (it will be listed as an ingredient on the label if it is an
additive).
"Fluoride
makes the entire tooth structure more resistant to decay and promotes
remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before damage is
even visible," explains Academy of General Dentistry spokesperson,
Charles H. Perle, DMD, FAGD. "Studies have confirmed that the most
effective source of fluoride is water fluoridation."
Diabetes
Diabetes reduces
the body's resistance to infection, so you're at a risk for gum
disease. Brushing, flossing, and monitoring your blood sugar can help.
"Diabetes is
directly related to periodontal disease, so seeing the dentist and
having your triglycerides and cholesterol levels checked on a regular
basis is also crucial," stresses Perle.
Perle also points
out that research has shown that diabetics can reduce the amount of
insulin they need to take by maintaining good gum health.
Tobacco
Smoking turns
your teeth yellow, but it can be much more damaging than that.
"Using any form
of tobacco can harm your teeth and gums in a number of ways," says
Halpern.
"It
can cause throat, lung, and mouth cancer, and even death. Additionally,
the tar from tobacco forms a sticky film on teeth, which harbors
bacteria that promote acid production and create irritating toxins, both
of which cause gum inflammation, tooth decay, and loss."
Wine
Wine drinkers
beware: Regular wine consumption can harm tooth enamel.
According to
Halpern, wine's acidity can dissolve the tooth structure, and both red
and white wine can increase dental staining. Still, you don't have to
give up your regular glass of vino to save your smile.
"Enamel erosion
develops when wine drinkers swish the wine, keeping it in constant
contact with the enamel, so instead, take small sips and rinse with
water when you're done drinking," advises Perle.
Pregnancy
It's especially
important to take care of your teeth and gums when you're expecting,
since studies show a link between untreated gum disease and pre-term and
low-birth-weight babies.
"Changes in
hormone levels during pregnancy, particularly surges in estrogen and
progesterone, can cause inflammation of the gums, which can lead to
gingivitis (red, swollen, tender gums that are more likely to bleed) and
put you at risk for infection," says Academy of General Dentistry
spokesperson, Gigi Meinecke, DDS, FAGD.
If you have
morning sickness, rinse your mouth with water or rub your teeth with a
paste of baking soda and water to neutralize the acid caused by
vomiting, since it can lead to tooth decay.
Diet
pills
Even though they
may seem like a quick way to trim your waist, diet pills can also be a
fast track to gum disease and tooth decay.
"Like many
over-the-counter and prescription medications, diet pills decrease
salivary flow, which causes dry mouth and puts you at risk for gum
disease, tooth decay, cavities, and discomfort," says Halpern.
Bottom line: A
balanced diet and exercise are the safest way to lose weight and protect
your smile.