Surprising Keys to a HEALTHY SMILE

Dentists warn that some healthy habits actually harm teeth. The good news: Easy tweaks can protect your pearly whites

Julia Roberts’ megawatt smile is as bright today as it was when she lit up the screen in Pretty Woman more than 25 years ago. One reason? She brushes with baking soda. It’s a smart move since experts say some toothpastes contain ingredients that can harm teeth and gums over time — like triclosan, an antimicrobial that disrupts the balance of beneficial bacteria in the mouth.

Now dentists are cautioning about some other daily habits that are a boon for vitality, but can damage teeth. “I frequently see women who aren’t aware that some of the things they do to improve their overall wellbeing are taking a toll on their teeth,” says Joseph Banker, D.M.D., a celebrity dentist in New Jersey. Here, three good-health behaviors with dental downsides — and the simple saves.

IF YOU SIP LEMON WATER…

“Women come in all the time toting bottles of lemon water,” says Dr. Banker. “And when I find out they have tooth decay, I tell them, ‘That water is to blame.’” Lemon water helps rebalance the body’s PH for a range of health perks, but the citric acid can destroy enamel, making teeth vulnerable to cavities. That’s why he advises limiting lemon water to three 8 oz. glasses daily and drinking it within 5 minutes of pouring. And after each glass, swish with plain water. “The time limit ensures teeth aren’t bathed in lemon’s natural acids for long and the swish rinses the acids away.”

IF YOU DRINK FRESH JUICE…

Fresh juices are packed with plant compounds that boost energy and immunity, but they also stain teeth — and women over 50 are at greater risk. “Anything that will stain a white T-shirt will do the same to teeth, so colorful vegetables and fruit can be major offenders,” says Marc Liechtung, D.M.D., of Manhattan Dental Arts in New York City. Topping the list? Beets, berries and dark greens like kale. Fortunately, simply sipping through a straw can keep staining substances from touching the front of teeth.

IF YOU CHEW GUM…

Half of women over 50 experience dry mouth, so it’s logical to chew gum to boost saliva production. But all that chewing can make jaw muscles tight, says Brian Evans, D.D.S., of Reno, Nev. “This muscle tension can result in clenching, grinding and TMJ, which can cause facial pain, excessive tooth wear and gum recession that makes teeth susceptible to sensitivity and decay.” His advice: Chew gum for just 15 minutes at a time and opt for a brand with xylitol, a sugar-free sweetener shown to cut risk of tooth decay by up to 70 percent.

“I brush my teeth with baking soda, which I learned from my grandfather… the baking soda changes the Ph in my mouth to help prevent tartar.” —Julia Roberts, 49