When Acid Attacks

We all have eating habits that we cannot easily avoid, like eating and drinking carbonated, sugary and acidic drinks. Sure, we all know the harmful effect of consuming these beverages does to our body but we neglect to pay attention to the damage it causes to our teeth.

Enamel is the hard, outer layer covering the teeth which is considered as the hardest tissue in the body. It helps protect your teeth from biting, chewing, grinding and gives the nice white shiny color. 

Acid Erosion is the wearing down of the enamel.

Signs of enamel loss varies depending on the sensitivity, dull or discoloration and yellowing of the teeth. As enamel worn away the dentine layer is more exposed making the teeth lose their shine, becomes yellowish, more sensitive and the incisal edge of the front teeth becomes gray and transparent.

• Here is the list of food and drinks you might want to watch out to prevent acid erosion:
• Fruit juices – lemons, oranges, strawberries and grapefruits.
• Diet (high in sugar and starches)
• Carbonated drinks - soft drinks or carbonated water.
• Acid reflux disease (GERD)
• Gastrointestinal problems
• Frequent vomiting from bulimia and alcoholism
• Dry mouth or low salivary flow (xerostomia) 
• Medications (aspirin, antihistamines and some vitamins)

Unfortunately, once enamel is lost it cannot be replaced, it is important to know how to prevent and protect your teeth from acid erosion.

So, how do we avoid teeth erosion? 

Drink lots of water. Hydrate yourself upon consuming acidic food and drinks, that way the concentration of the acidity level will be reduced. 

• If you’re eating something acidic, have cheese, milk, or another non-acidic food or drink with it.
• Use straws when drinking carbonated drinks. 
• Don’t brush your teeth immediately after eating or drinking acidic food and drinks, brush at least after 2 hours from consumption.
• Use soft bristle tooth brush and floss regularly.
• Make sure to visit your dentist regularly, schedule an appointment now with Dr. Rabih Abi Nader if you experience one of these signs and symptoms.