We have good news and we have bad news. The good news? The enamel on your teeth is one of the hardest substances on the planet. It protects your teeth from a variety of impacts, foods, and beverages that we throw at it every day. The bad news? Your enamel can degrade and wear away by acid erosion. If this happens, you are much more likely to experience cavities and serious decay, which can jeopardize not only your dental health but your overall health, as well. Given the consequences of acid erosion, the most obvious question is: what can we do to prevent it?
There are two main substances that cause our enamel to erode: sugar and then acid. Sugar in your mouth feeds bacteria, which produce acid as a byproduct. This acid can significantly erode your teeth if it’s not removed quickly. The cause of erosion is quite simple and so it the solution. Here are some things you can do right away to prevent acid erosion on your teeth:
1. Rinse your mouth with water immediately after eating and drinking.
2. Reduce the amount of sugar in your diet.
3. Use a straw when drinking sugary substances so that more of the sugar bypasses your teeth.
4. Consider finishing your snacks or meals with something that is basic in pH, such as cheese or milk.
5. Chew sugar-free gum. The act of chewing produces saliva, which brings a variety of minerals to your mouth and helps you break down your foods faster.
If you have any questions about your dental health or if you would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible.