Acidic Foods Threaten Tooth Enamel

When you think of foods that cause tooth decay, you probably think of sugary, sticky foods and drink, but did you know that acidic foods can be just as harmful? High-acid foods and drinks will slowly wear away the outer enamel protecting your teeth, causing cavities, sensitivity and discoloration. Does that mean you have to give up your favorite cup of coffee, glass of wine, or morning grapefruit? Absolutely not! Read on to find out how to prevent acidic foods from damaging your teeth.

How Do Acidic Foods Erode Your Teeth?

The enamel on the outside of your teeth is made primarily of calcium. Unfortunately, acid leaches the calcium from your tooth enamel, causing the protective surface to soften and break down. This process can lead to serious dental problems, so it’s important to pay attention to early warning signs like sensitivity and discoloration. Here are some common signs of tooth erosion caused by acidic foods.

Sensitivity. If you are experiencing pain when you consume hot, cold, or sweet food and drink, it means that your enamel is starting to wear away. The sensitivity will increase as more and more enamel wears away.

• Discoloration. Thinning enamel will eventually expose the underlying dentin, which has a yellowish tinge. 
• Rounded teeth. Your teeth may appear rounded from the wearing away of the enamel. .
• Transparency. Your teeth may appear translucent, especially around the edges. 
• Cracks. As the enamel continues to wear away, small cracks and fissures may start to appear on the surface of your teeth. 
• Cupping. You may notice small dents on the chewing surface of your teeth. 

High-Acidic Food that Damages Tooth Enamel

• Carbonated soft drinks. Sodas and soft drinks all contain high levels of acid, even diet options.
• Wine
• Fruit juice. The most acidic options include lemon, cranberry, orange and apple.
• Citrus fruits. Oranges, lemons, grapefruit, etc.
• Candy. While all candy tends to damage the teeth, sour and chewy candies contain the most acid.
• Sugar. Although sugar doesn’t contain acid, it does promote the growth of bacteria that creates acid in your mouth. 

You can Reduce the Effects of Acid on Your Teeth

You don’t have to give up your favorite acidic foods entirely, but you should use caution if you want to protect your teeth. Here are some tips to reduce the damaging effects of acid on your pearly whites.

• Stop snacking on acidic foods between meals. If you’re craving acidic foods or drink, eat them with other foods at mealtimes. This will reduce their contact with your teeth and help neutralize the acid.  
• Drink water with acidic foods. This will help wash away the acid from your teeth.
• Use a straw. This will minimize the contact between acidic drinks and your teeth.
• Avoid carbonated drinks
• Don’t brush immediately after a meal. Acid softens your enamel, so brushing immediately after eating might actually harm your teeth. Instead, rinse your mouth with water and brush a half hour after eating. 

At Lake Dental Clinic in Camdenton, we’re committed to your oral health. If you’re experiencing sensitivity, discoloration, or transparency, please schedule an appointment.