Dentist shares how 'healthy' water habit can cause serious damage to your teeth
A dentist has claimed that a seemingly healthy habit can actually cause damage to your teeth.
Dr Ellie Phillips says she has more than 50 years experience as a dentist and "online educator" offering various services and tips to help people keep their teeth healthy. She also boasts a large following on TikTok where she shares her advice on looking after your pearly whites.
The dentist, based in Austin, Texas, US, has claimed that sipping water throughout the day could actually be bad for your teeth. This is because it stops your saliva interacting with your teeth. Her website states that it doesn’t offer medical advice, nor is she checked by the US’ Food and Drug Administration.
In the recent TikTok, she said people should "rethink" sipping water throughout the day - despite the fact many people may think it good for staying hydrated. She goes on to say: "This is why sipping on water all throughout the day is not good for your teeth. And this applies to all liquids. The spit or the saliva that comes into your mouth is the mouth's most healing liquid.
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The dentist claimed sipping water frequently could actually be bad for your teeth (Dr. Ellie Phillips/TikTok)
She recommended drinking less frequently, to give your saliva time to do its natural job (Dr. Ellie Phillips/TikTok)"It can help heal your teeth because it's full of all the minerals that your teeth need and there are also cells and immune cells and proteins that are necessary for gum healing."
Research has previously shown that this is the case. Saliva can help protect your teeth and gums, forming a thin film over them to protect against bacteria. Similarly, antimicrobial agents in it can kill other bacteria. Also, as it moves around the mouth it can sweep away small bits of food responsible for the bacteria and can neutralise acids too.
But Dr Phillips said by sipping water throughout the day you’re "diluting" your saliva, so limiting its effectiveness. She claimed: "This is why people who sip liquids all day have sensitive teeth, gum recession, cracked enamel, their teeth are weak, they break, they think they need night guards and retainers. What they need is to give their own saliva time, adequate time to interact with their teeth and gums."
She also offered other advice, recommending people who breathe through their mouths should try and shut them during the day. She said: "If you can, close your mouth and lick your teeth, if your front teeth feel dry and allow your own healing liquid in your mouth, it's free, you don't have to go anywhere and buy it."
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