Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body, but that doesn’t mean it’s indestructible. Once worn down, enamel does not regenerate. Being aware of which foods dissolve and weaken tooth enamel will help you protect this vital piece of your dental health.
Enamel serves as your tooth’s first and foremost line of defense against decay and dental sensitivity. The hard, mineralized surface protects the nerves, dentin, and pulp below. Because enamel isn’t made up of living cells, your body cannot repair it if it becomes damaged.
Many believe that sugar is the worst substance for tooth enamel, and while sugar poses the risk of tooth decay, corrosive acidic foods and beverages actually present an equally serious threat. Some of the worst culprits include:
- Soda and other carbonated beverages: Soda doesn’t just contain sugar--even diet soda and other carbonated drinks contain phosphoric acid that dissolves enamel. Citrus sodas have the added offense of containing citric acid, which also can erode enamel.
- Acidic foods. Citrus fruits, vinegar-based foods such as pickles, tomatoes, sour candies, and fruit juices all upset the balance in your mouth by adding acid that erodes enamel.
- Hard candies. The sugar in hard candies tends to sit in the mouth too long. This prolonged contact with the enamel leads to bacterial growth. But don’t assume that hard candy is ok if you eat it quickly: biting on hard substances such as lollipops, lozenges, and ice can lead to chipped, cracked, and broken enamel.
- Sticky foods. Dried fruit and other sticky foods result in particles getting stuck on and in between teeth, causing bacteria to grow and leading to decay.
- Foods and drinks that cause dry mouth. Alcohol, salty snacks, and coffee all have a dehydrating effect that leads to bacterial overgrowth. Keep your mouth balanced by staying hydrated with water, and rinsing your mouth out after eating or drinking.
It’s impractical for most people to avoid all acidic foods and drinks all the time. To minimize their negative impacts on enamel, try to incorporate them as part of a meal instead of as a stand-alone snack or drink. Rinse your mouth out after eating or drinking sugary and acidic items. Brush teeth with a soft brush and enamel-protecting toothpaste. Brushing hard or with an abrasive substance only weakens enamel further.
Allen Dental, located in West Salem, Wisconsin, provides general dentistry, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and teeth whitening for the whole family in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. To learn more, please visit our website or call (608) 786-3303. See our 100% positive patient reviews on rateabiz.com! At Allen Dental, we believe everyone deserves to “smile with confidence.”
