Dental Hygiene & Acid Erosion

Have you ever thought about acid erosion being an important part of your dental hygiene? 

We all know that having a glass of wine or two can be hard to resist.. Just like how many people enjoy eating fruits on a daily basis. But did you know that enjoying these things can be damaging to your enamel, especially without knowing the proper care afterward? 

That is because high acidic foods and beverages wear away your enamel (that protects your teeth). This process is known as tooth erosion. But wait a minute, what is tooth erosion? Tooth erosion develops when acids soften part of the enamel surface on your teeth, which leads to exposure of the yellow part of the teeth(dentin), because the outer layer thins and the dentin layer shines through. This results in a smile that appears more yellow, without actually having any staining on the teeth.

What foods are too acidic for your teeth and can affect your dental hygiene health?

• Citrus fruits such as: lemons,limes, tangerine, grapefruit and oranges
• Sodas and fruit juice
• Tomatoes and tomato juice
• Coffee 
• Wine
• Sauerkraut 
• Vinegar

The foods and drinks that are listed may be consumed on a daily basis.. But before you worry- know that there are ways to prevent tooth erosion! 

How to prevent erosion with dental hygiene products

When drinking coffee or fruit juices using a straw helps it from having direct contact to your teeth. Another way would be to rinse your mouth with water after eating fruits that have a high acid level to remove the leftover residue on your teeth. 

It is also best when consuming acidic food/beverage to finish it within 20 minutes, rather than prolonging it during the day. Why is this you ask? It is because when you consume something acidic, it reduces the pH in your oral cavity for 20 minutes, while the pH is low (acidic) in your mouth, your enamel is prone to erode. Therefore, if you drink and eat acidic snacks all day you are consistently lowering the pH in your mouth and thinning your enamel. 

Another great dental hygiene tip is to use Mi paste. Mi paste releases calcium and phosphate minerals into your mouth when they are needed to help produce a saliva-like environment that helps to maintain a normal pH level and healthy teeth. You can apply a pea-size amount in the morning after your toothbrush routine (make sure you do not rinse it out!) but avoid eating or drinking for 20 minutes. You may also do this 20 minutes before having coffee or wine! 

Finally, a great toothpaste, recommended by dental hygienists, is Pronamel. It is used to  prevent enamel acid erosion. The best way to use this is brushing for 2 minutes, spit out and leave on the teeth (do not rinse out) every morning and evening . 

Your oral health is multifactorial, and it is always important to visit your dental professional for dental hygiene cleanings and check-ups. If it has been over 6 months since your last dental hygiene cleaning, it is time to book!