(And how to replace them to keep your smile for life)
Picture this: You wake up, prepare a steaming hot pot of coffee , bite into a lemon for your detox breakfast,tear open a bag of Takis with your teeth while working, and at the end of the day, you fall asleep without brushing because “tomorrow you’ll do better.” Sounds harmless, right? Wrong. These little habits, so common in our beautiful country, are damaging your teeth like a silent enemy.
The truth is that 60% of the dental problems we treat at the clinic come from everyday actions that go unnoticed. And the worst part: most people think “just once won’t hurt,” without realizing that dental enamel doesn’t regenerate. But not all is lost. In this article, we’ll reveal the 7 Mexican habits that are destroying your smile and, most importantly, how to replace them without giving up the things you love..
1. “It’s just a lemon in my agua fresca”: The overuse of acidic foods 🍋
The problem::
Acidic foods like lemon, vinegar, citrus juices, and even fresh tomato (a base for many Mexican salsas) erode dental enamel. Acidic pH demineralizes teeth, leaving them vulnerable to cavities and sensitivity.
The science behind it::
- Dental enamel weakens at a pH below 5.5. A lemon has a pH of 2.0, similar to battery acid.
- A UNAM study revealed that 45% of Mexicans consume acidic beverages daily, increasing the risk of dental erosion.
Real case::
“Ana, a 28-year-old patient, drank lemon juice daily to ‘detox.’ After a year, her teeth became translucent and sensitive to cold. With fluoride treatments and habit changes, she recovered her smile.”.
Alternatives:: - Prepare aguas frescas with cold hibiscus (less acidic) or natural watermelon..
- Use a stainless steel straw to minimize contact with teeth.
- Rinse your mouth with alkaline water (pH 7.5–8.5) after consuming acidic foods.
2. “My toothbrush still works”: Using worn-out toothbrushes 🪥
The mistake::
An old toothbrush (more than 3 months) doesn’t clean properly and accumulates bacteria. It’s like sweeping the floor with a broom that has no bristles.
Consecuencias:
- Inflamed gums:: Las cerdas gastadas no eliminan la placa cerca de la línea de las encías.
- Mal aliento crónico: Bacterias acumuladas en el cepillo migran a tu boca.
Solución profesional: - Season rule:Change your toothbrush every equinox (March, June, September, December).
- Visual indicator:: Elige cepillos con franjas azules Choose brushes with blue stripes that fade when it’s time to replace them.
3. “It’s just a candy”: Snacking all day 🍬
The science behind the danger::
Every time you eat something with sugar or carbohydrates, bacteria produce acids that attack your teeth for 20 minutes.Constant snacking keeps your mouth in a chronic acidic state.
Local example::
- Eating 1 churro in the morning is better than nibbling on 5 María cookies throughout the day.
- Takis and chamoy are doubly harmful: acidic + sugary. Tip from Dr. Alejandra:
- If you eat something sweet, finish with a piece of panela cheese (it neutralizes mouth pH).
- Carry nuts or almonds in your bag: they’re rich in calcium and don’t promote cavities.
4. “Opening bags with your teeth is faster” 🌮
Alarming statistic::
In Mexico, 40% of dental fractures treated in clinics are caused by using teeth as tools (opening bottles, cutting threads, etc.).
Real case::
“Roberto, from Guadalajara, cracked a molar while opening a bag of chicharrones. After a root canal and crown, he now carries mini scissors decorated with the Club América eagle on his keychain.”.
Cultural alternatives::
- Use multi-purpose knives with alebrije designs (practical and artisanal).
- At markets, ask the vendor to open bags with their scissors.
5. Brushing with fury: More force ≠ cleaner 💢
The popular myth::
“If my gums don’t bleed, I’m not cleaning well.”
The uncomfortable truth::
Brushing too hard wears down enamel and causes gum recession, leaving roots exposed. In Mexico, 30% of dental sensitivity cases are due to aggressive brushing.
Correct technique (Step by Step)::
- 45° angle:Aim the bristles toward the gumline.
- Gentle circular movements:As if you were painting a watercolor.
- Total of 2 minutes: Use an hourglass or play the song “Cielito Lindo” in the background (it lasts 2:10 min).
Recommended tools:
- Electric toothbrushes with pressure sensors (they beep if you press too hard).
6. “Better to use a strong rinse”: Alcohol vs. saliva 🚫
The invisible danger::
Alcohol-based rinses (like some “extra strong” mint ones) dry out the mouth, removing saliva—your natural defense against cavities.
Scientific fact::
- Saliva contains calcium and phosphate ions that remineralize teeth.
- A study by the IPN showed that 60% of Mexicans use inadequate rinses.
100% Mexican alternatives:: - Xoconostle rinse:Boil the fruit, strain, and mix with water. Neutralizes pH.
- Chamomile + mint infusion:Hydrates and reduces gum inflammation.
- Organic coconut oil (oil pulling rinse): An Ayurvedic tradition adopted by modern clinics.
7. “Nothing happened today”: Skipping nighttime brushing 😴
The hard fact::
Sleeping without brushing your teeth is like throwing an 8-hour bacteria party. During the night, saliva production decreases, making acid attacks easier.
Common consequences::
- Deep cavities:Especially in molars, where tortilla and bean residue accumulates.
- Morning gingivitis:Red, swollen gums upon waking.
Practical solution:: - Psychological trick:Leave your toothbrush in the shower. At night, when you bathe, you’ll see it and remember to use it.
- Mini travel kit:Keep a folding toothbrush on your nightstand for those extra-tired days.
Bonus: 3 “Invisible” Habits That Also Damage Your Mouth 👀
- Mouth breathing:Dries out tissues and promotes cavities. Solution: Nasal breathing exercises inspired by the temazcal.
- Biting pencils or glasses:Causes microfractures. Use stress balls shaped like sugar skulls.
- Taking blood pressure medication:Many cause dry mouth. Ask your dentist for moisturizing gels with guava flavor.
Conclusion: Your Smile Is for Life… Take Care of It Like a Treasure! 🌟
“In Mexico, our habits are part of our identity, but with small adjustments, we can protect our smile without losing what we love. At AM Dental Studio, we’ve seen how simple changes save teeth and restore confidence. The secret? It’s not about perfection… it’s about progress. Ready to start?”
