Lemon water, praised across social media as a refreshing and healthy beverage, has captured the attention of wellness enthusiasts worldwide. With promises of improved hydration, a boost of vitamin C, and a healthier alternative to sugary drinks, the trend has exploded on platforms like TikTok, where thousands of videos extol its virtues.
However, Dr. Stephanie Dumanian, owner of Park Lex 60 Dental, is raising concerns about the potential risks associated with regularly consuming lemon water. Speaking on HuffPost’s “Am I Doing It Wrong?” podcast with hosts Raj Punjabi and Noah Michelson, Dr. Dumanian revealed that this seemingly harmless habit could have damaging effects on dental health.
“I’ve seen a significant impact on patients’ enamel due to lemon water,” Dr. Dumanian explained. “When patients come in with unexplained enamel erosion, I often discover that they’ve been drinking lemon water daily. Many of them are unaware of the harm it can cause, especially when they brush their teeth right after.”
The problem lies in the acidity of lemon juice, which can weaken tooth enamel, making it more susceptible to damage. “Brushing your teeth immediately after drinking lemon water is essentially brushing acid into your enamel,” she warned.
To protect your teeth, Dr. Dumanian recommends brushing before consuming lemon water or waiting 20 to 30 minutes afterward. Alternatively, rinsing your mouth with water can help neutralize the acid before brushing. Another tip is to drink lemon water through a straw, which minimizes contact between the acidic beverage and your teeth. This method can also be beneficial for coffee drinkers, reducing both acid exposure and staining.
Dr. Dumanian’s insights extend beyond the lemon water debate. During the podcast, she also discussed why some individuals are more prone to cavities, the surprising causes of bad breath, and other essential tips for maintaining oral health.
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