Do acidic foods impact the health of your teeth?

While it’s natural to focus on the nutritional value of your diet, have you ever thought about how the foods you eat affect your teeth? That refreshing glass of orange juice in the morning or tangy salad dressing can contribute to enamel erosion and increase the risk of tooth sensitivity and decay.

At The Practice, our dentists believe it’s important to have all the information you need to maintain a healthy smile. Let’s explore how acidic foods impact your dental health and what you can do to protect your teeth.

How acids affect your teeth

Acidic foods and drinks can have a big impact on your dental health. Over time, the acid contained in certain foods can erode your tooth enamel, which is the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Enamel erosion can lead to:

Increased tooth sensitivity: As enamel wears away, the underlying dentin becomes exposed, leading to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods.
Tooth decay: Weakened enamel makes it easier for cavities to form, as the protective barrier of the tooth is compromised.
Discoloration: Eroded enamel can make your teeth appear more yellow, as the underlying dentin becomes more visible.
Tooth cracks and chips: Thinner enamel is more prone to cracking and chipping, which can cause discomfort and further dental issues.

What foods are the most acidic?

Here’s a list of the most common acidic foods:

Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits).
Berries (strawberries, blueberries).
Vinegar-based dressings and sauces.
Soft drinks and energy drinks.
Wine and certain alcoholic beverages.
Tomatoes and tomato-based products.

The role of saliva in neutralising acids

One of your best defences against the effects of acidic foods on your teeth is your saliva. How does it work? It helps to wash away any food particles and neutralises the acids before they can damage your tooth enamel. After you eat acidic foods, your saliva works to restore the natural pH balance in your mouth.

How to protect your teeth from acidic foods

Protecting your teeth from acidic foods doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the things you love to eat. Here are some tips to help protect your teeth from the effects of acidic foods:

Rinse your mouth: After consuming acidic foods or drinks, rinse your mouth with water to help neutralise the acids.
Wait before brushing: Brushing immediately after eating or drinking acidic substances can actually cause more harm. Wait at least 30 minutes to allow your enamel to re-harden.
Use a straw: When drinking acidic beverages, use a straw to minimise contact with your teeth.
Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralise acids and wash them away.
Include dairy: Dairy products like cheese and yoghurt can help neutralise acids and provide calcium to strengthen your enamel.
Regular dental checkups: Regular 6-monthly visits to our dental practice in West End can help monitor the health of your teeth and catch any issues early.

Professional dental treatment for enamel erosion

If you’re experiencing symptoms of enamel erosion, such as increased sensitivity or discoloration, our South Brisbane dentists can help. At The Practice, we offer a range of treatments to address the damage caused by acidic foods.

Fluoride treatments can help strengthen your enamel, while dental bonding or veneers can repair and protect your teeth from further erosion. Regular dental checkups allow us to monitor your oral health and provide personalised recommendations to keep your teeth strong and healthy.

At The Practice, we’re here to support you with tips and professional care to keep your smile healthy and bright. If you have any concerns about your tooth enamel or need personalised advice, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us today.