Beware of an Acidic Diet

Many healthy foods are acidic, like citrus fruits and tomatoes. Some less healthy items, such as soda or sour candies, also expose your teeth to excess acid. When your diet includes acidic foods and beverages, your teeth may suffer as a result. Furthermore, any nutrition source for bacteria can increase the level of acid in your mouth, as bacteria produce acids as byproducts of digestion.
An acidic environment increases your risk of tooth erosion because it can compromise the enamel, which is the strongest substance in the body. When the tooth’s enamel breaks down, cavities can result. Symptoms of tooth erosion may include sensitivity, discoloration, cupping or dents in the teeth and cracking or transparency.
Patients who want to protect their teeth should limit the amount of acidic beverages and foods in their diets. There are other steps that you can take to safeguard against the effects of acidic substances on your teeth. For example, using a straw will limit the amount of direct contact that acidic drinks will have with your teeth. You can also be sure to drink water when enjoying an acidic food to help clear the acid away.
Of course, if you’ve been eating an acidic diet, you may already have suffered damage to your teeth. In these cases, the teeth may develop cavities. A holistic dentist can give you mercury-free fillings to restore the teeth if they have been affected by decay.
Mercury-free fillings typically are more attractive than the metal amalgam alternatives. They are tooth-colored and blend in with the smile rather than standing out and detracting from the smile’s aesthetics. Some patients have concerns about the potentially toxic effects of mercury in the amalgam, and choosing mercury-free fillings will eliminate those possible consequences.
Your diet has a significant impact on your oral health, and consuming many acidic foods and beverages can damage your teeth.
Talk to our holistic dentist about your diet and how you can adjust what you eat and drink to protect your smile. Contact our office to schedule an appointment today!