Tooth Enamel – Strong But Brittle
Your tooth enamel is one of the hardest surfaces on earth – it’s harder than steel! But, it’s also brittle. So while scratching your tooth enamel is nearly impossible, chipping or cracking a tooth is a real possibility. Your tooth enamel is also vulnerable to acids – both in what you eat and drink, and as the biproduct of oral bacteria eating the sugars you consume.
In today’s blog, I’m going to talk about the tooth erosion caused by acidic beverages. Many of my Batavia area dental patients enjoy drinking fruit juices and sodas – but not all of them suffer with enamel erosion. I’m not the only one who wondered why. Researchers also had this question and conducted a study that analyzed the participants’ drinking habits (including the frequency, timing, and duration of dietary acid consumption).
Study Results
While preventing this erosion by avoiding acidic foods and beverages is always your best choice, researchers found that those people who experienced less enamel erosion do things a little differently…
They use a straw – but be good to our environment and avoid single-use plastic straws – paper or metal straws are a better choice.
They avoid swishing acidic beverages – swish water all you like though – it will help wash away any lingering acids and food debris – better yet, have a glass of water after that soda!
They drink their soda or juice with a meal – the act of eating increases saliva production and helps wash that acid away from your teeth.
Prevention is the keystone of good dental health. Through avoiding tooth-harming foods and beverages, regular visits with the hygienist and dentist, plus good habits like proper brushing and flossing at home, we have more control than ever before over the health of our teeth and gums.
For excellence in dental care from a compassionate staff committed to your comfort, well-being, and sunny smile, call Batavia Family Dental for an appointment. Those looking for preventive dental care in Batavia, NY are always welcome at our full-service, state-of-the-art dental office, located at 6 Batavia City Centre. Please contact us today. We accept most insurances.
Yours in dental health,
Dr. Steve Sokolovskiy, Batavia Family Dental
P.S. Research shows that sugar-free soda is just as erosive for teeth as sugar-sweetened soda, and hot drinks have greater erosive potential than cold drinks.