Protecting Your Teeth From Lifelong Acid Erosion

Dentist Blog

If you have a diet that is high in acid, you increase the risk that your teeth will suffer from tooth decay and you will also watch your teeth become less attractive over time. The problem with acid erosion is that it is not reversible. Therefore, if you want to preserve great teeth throughout your life, you will need to try to reduce the effects of acid erosion.

Food Acidity

The level of acidity found in food is measured by the pH level. Anything that has a pH level below 5.7 will erode your teeth. If you consume foods that are not acidic, you can reduce or eliminate the effects of acid erosion. Acid erosion results from the foods and drinks that you consume. Certain foods and drinks are highly acid, such as wine, and others have a low level of acidity that could still wear down your teeth over time, such as tomatoes. Types of foods that are acidic include

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Fruit juices

  • Citrus fruits

  • Bananas

  • Yogurt

  • Barley

Of course, many of these foods are considered to be healthy, so it may not be a good idea to completely eliminate them. Instead, you should take steps to limit your exposure to these acidic foods.

Limiting Exposure

For acidic foods to erode your teeth, the acidic substance will need to come in contact with your teeth. Therefore, if you drink something acidic while keeping it separate from your teeth, such as by using a straw, you will reduce the effects of acid erosion.

If you cannot use a straw, make sure that you swallow the food or beverage as quickly as possible. Swishing an alcoholic beverage in your mouth will prolong exposure of your teeth to acidic substances. But even if you quickly swallow, some of the substance will remain and you will need to remove it quickly after your meal.

Cleaning Your Teeth

The amount of time that the acids remain in contact with your teeth will also affect how much acid erosion occurs. If you brush your teeth soon after consuming something acidic, you will remove the substance. Also, the type of toothbrush you use will reduce the extent to where your teeth erode. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush and brush your teeth as gently as possible. You will have to be very careful, but with diligence, you can protect your teeth from acid erosion.

For more information, visit http://www.nwidentist.com/.

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