Tooth enamel erosion is a prevalent issue among people today. Nowadays, people are incorporating acidic foods and drinks into their diets, which is why more and more people are experiencing enamel erosion. Acidic items, whether it be fruits or sodas, can damage your enamel and wear it down. This is the important protective outer layer of your teeth.
Once your enamel wears away, it exposes your dentin, which then causes sensitivity upon eating or drinking something hot or cold. This, as a result, also increases your chances of cavities. Thankfully, there are several ways to protect your teeth. Practicing good oral hygiene and making the necessary changes in your diet are the two best things you can do.
Many people think that brushing their teeth right after eating or drinking something acidic can prevent erosion. Ironically, it does not. Instead, it is recommended to brush after at least 30 minutes of consuming something acidic. Schedule your dental check-up with a Hanover dentist today to see whether you need enamel erosion treatment.
Understanding acid erosion
Acid erosion occurs when your tooth enamel loses its minerals, which causes the enamel (the outer layer of your teeth) to wear away. When this happens, it can lead to various dental health problems as well as ruin the appearance of your smile.
Enamel can dissolve when you consume items of high acidity. This erosion occurs from two main sources:
Dietary acids
Dietary acids comprise the foods and drinks you consume that are high in acidity. These can include sodas, which contain phosphoric acid and carbonic acid that severely damage enamel. Citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges contain citric acid, which can wear away enamel if consumed in large amounts. Vinegars also contribute to the same issue.
Stomach acids
When you experience certain medical conditions, the acids in your stomach can reach your mouth and come in contact with your teeth, resulting in enamel erosion. For example, acid reflux. The backward flow of stomach acid into the mouth can gradually erode tooth enamel. Conditions like bulimia or frequent vomiting also expose teeth to high levels of stomach acid.
Tips to protect your teeth from acid erosion
There are various steps you can take to protect your teeth from acid erosion. This includes the following:
Avoid acidic foods and beverages
While sodas have become a staple in people’s diets nowadays, they are bad for your teeth. Limit your soft drink intake and drink non-acidic beverages instead. Even drinking juices of citrus fruits, such as oranges, can harm your teeth. Many alcoholic beverages, particularly wines, are acidic and can contribute to enamel erosion over time.
Go for non-alcoholic alternatives
Instead of acidic options, there are healthier alternatives that are gentler on your enamel. Dairy products, due to their high calcium content, contribute to enamel health. Incorporating a glass of milk per day into your diet can go a long way. Drinking water, especially fluoridated water, can neutralize acids and wash away food particles.
Change the way you consume acidic foods
When you consume acidic foods and beverages, make sure you do it in a way that inflicts the least damage to your enamel. For example, avoid snacking on acidic items the entire day. Instead, have a small amount during your meal times only. Do not forget to rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking something acidic.
Another thing you can do is consume acidic drinks through a straw. This limits the contact between acidic beverages and your teeth, lowering the risk of erosion.
Protect your smile against acid erosion!
Your teeth are your assets. If you do not have strong and healthy teeth, it creates distress in your life by causing pain every time you try to eat or drink something. Protect your smile from acids and visit your dentist in Hanover today!
