Acids are everywhere – in bacteria, your favorite drinks, carbohydrates, and fruits and veggies. We’re also exposed to the acids our bodies produce such as when we suffer from acid reflux.
Teeth are coated in a protective enamel layer. Enamel is the hardest substance in your body, but it is gradually worn away by acid exposure.
Why do You Need Enamel?
Enamel buys your teeth time – the softer inner layers of teeth are much weaker than enamel and quickly deteriorate with acid and decay. It takes bacteria a longer time to work their way through that tough outer layer!
Your teeth are also insulated by the enamel. Without it, the nerves in your tooth would have a hard time coping with temperature changes.
Teeth with an eroded enamel layer tend to be:
- Yellow
- Very sensitive
- Prone to decay
How to Reduce Acid Erosion
You can limit the effects of acid on your enamel by cutting back on acidic sugary foods and choosing water over other drinks. After you eat, wait thirty minutes after eating before you brush so that you don’t spread and scrub the acid around to other teeth.
Some medical conditions that cause acid reflux or frequent vomiting can be very bad for your teeth. Swish your mouth with a rinse made with baking soda to neutralize the acid after your teeth are exposed to it.
Fluoride is key to strengthening enamel with particles that are even stronger than your natural teeth. Choose a fluoridated toothpaste and rinse to keep your enamel acid-resistant.
Lastly, plan a visit to Dr. Sarah Thompson. At Dream Dentist, she will evaluate your enamel and give you some great tips for preserving it.
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