Mukbangs, strangely a modern invention, have gained traction in the past decade. People worldwide enjoy an audio-visual broadcast of someone consuming large quantities of food. Sometimes, the challenge is to only munch on sugary treats.
If you ever happen to see one, it’s natural to feel your teeth jitter (at least once). We share your sentiments as too much of something sweet is not only a precursor to diabetes but also poor oral health. At least one in three adults in the UK suffers from dental caries.
The bacteria thriving on sugary foods release harmful acids that corrode teeth and weaken them. However, chocolates or candies are a well-known tooth offender. This article will take a detour – keep reading to learn about four additional threats to dental health.
Ice
Were you among those inquisitive toddlers who could not resist the temptation of chewing on ice? Well, it’s important to consider that you do not have your front-set milk teeth anymore! In other words, do your permanent teeth a favor and stop biting on ice if you haven’t stopped.
Some people testify to the adage that old habits die hard. Others simply cannot keep themselves from experiencing the thrilling sensation of chomping on flavored ice cubes. However, if you do so because of emotional stress, we totally understand.
In that case, it would be best to seek professional support or develop healthy stress-coping activities like painting, music, walking amid nature, etc. The truth is that ice may sever the life of your teeth. It frequently leads to cracked or chipped teeth problems.
The most alarming risk is that of developing sensitivity. Over time, you may experience a sharp pain upon chewing hot or cold foods. Furthermore, decades of this practice can even lead to changes in the jaw and cavities towards the premolars and molars.
Smoking/Tobacco
Were you aware that around one in every eight people across the UK smoke? This may be known in words but few remember it in deed. Smoking is injurious to health, even oral health. It can not only stain your teeth and tarnish their appearance but may lead to serious problems. Let’s look at some of them –
- Chain smokers often suffer from gum disease or periodontitis. This is because smoking leads to a reduced oxygen supply in the bloodstream. Gradually, the bacteria present on the teeth find their way into the gums and cause plaque or tartar to build. Once full-blown gum disease occurs, the underlying alveolar bone becomes vulnerable to erosion.
- Tooth loss is another common problem among smokers. It is an extension of the previous issue since tobacco consumption reduces oxygen content in the blood. With time, the bone tissue weakens, thereby forming loose sockets and brittle teeth.
- Besides the teeth and mouth cavity, other areas affected by smoking include the tongue. Smokers often suffer from a stained tongue, bad breath, and poor response to dental implants or other corrective treatments.
A professional cleaning twice every year along with regular brushing and flossing can prevent smoke-related tooth problems. Even so, the best course of action is to strike the ax at the root. In other words, smokers must try to overcome their addiction through nicotine, rehabilitation, etc.
Certain Medication
4 layers of hard and soft tissues make up a teeth – teeth, dentin, cementum, and the pulp. Minerals like magnesium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus provide every layer with its special texture and colour.
Some medicines contain ingredients that attack these layers by running them dry of the important minerals. Once the damage has begun, it may end up in tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious problems.
The medicine used to treat opioid use disorder, called Suboxone, is a prime example. Typically administered whole, the drug is sublingual. That means it must be placed under the tongue.
No food or water is to be consumed until the tablet dissolves in the saliva. Seems harmless, right? The US Federal court is dealing with litigation due to Suboxone’s side effects on oral health.
Yes, the Suboxone tooth decay lawsuit has been filed by 500 plaintiffs against its manufacturer, Invidior. It has been alleged that the organization used to be privy to the facet outcomes but chose not to take any concrete motion. currently, the meals and Drug management (FDA) has issued warning labels for Suboxone.
The most reported injuries after regular Suboxone usage are cavities, infections, and receding gum lines, as disclosed by TorHoerman Law. These often accompany costly corrective procedures like root canals and tooth extractions.
Even some over-the-counter antidepressants can affect the teeth. As for Suboxone, this medication was discontinued in the UK in July 2023.
Highly Acidic Foods
Sucrose or sugar is not the sole ingredient that can damage one’s smile. Some food items and drinks are acidic enough to corrode the teeth. Remember that we mentioned how teeth are composed of layers of minerals?
The substantial acid content of some foods can demineralize and weaken teeth. Such an individual is at risk of teeth discoloration, enamel erosion, sensitivity, transparency, and cracks. Top acidic food items to avoid include citrus fruits, sauerkraut, vinegar, etc.
Cut the acidic items down from your daily diet and add more alkaline foods and beverages. Think about green tea, tofu, potatoes, beans, bread, cheese, and more.
Did you know that alligators can renew their teeth? Sadly, we humans only get to have one permanent set. In light of this fact, making every possible effort to preserve oral health makes sense.
A healthy food plan that consists of tooth-pleasant ingredients rich in calcium, diet D, and phosphorus is a must. preserve habits like smoking and alcohol intake at arm’s period. Finally, be scrupulous in maintaining a twice-annual dental appointment to track your oral health.
