While the do-it-yourself approach may work for some small projects around the home, certain things are just better left up to the professionals. Especially in matters that concern your health, you’re better off trusting the experts to ensure your own safety. Local Lorain dentist C.R. Sfeir D.D.S., General Dentistry talks about the importance of going to the pros, even for something as seemingly small as cleaning your teeth.

There are plenty of home teeth whitening remedies you read about on the Internet. The dentists, however, want to warn patients of the harmful effects of one such home remedy: lemon juice and baking soda.

• Dangers Of Acid: With a pH value of 2.3, lemons are extremely acidic. Even brushing or rinsing your teeth with lemon juice once can instantly cause harm, wear away, and soften your enamel. It can even irritate your gums.
• Loss Of Calcium: Despite being a good source of calcium, lemon juice can actually result in a loss of the essential nutrient in your teeth. Calcium is necessary for keeping both your teeth and bones strong; unfortunately, once the calcium in teeth is lost, it’s gone for good.
• Added Dangers Of Baking Soda: If the acidic nature of lemon juice isn’t harmful enough, sometimes sources on the Internet will recommend adding baking soda to the mix as well. According to dentists, however, baking soda will further erode the enamel of your teeth.

No matter how diligent you are about brushing and flossing your teeth, without routine professional cleaning, you won’t be able to keep up with the daily buildup of plaque. If you’re due for a teeth cleaning, call to book an appointment with the dentists at C.R. Sfeir D.D.S., General Dentistry at (440) 960-5200. You can also visit them online for more information about setting up an appointment and their services.