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Patient Newsletter
Acid and Your Teeth
Acids found in food and soft drinks can have a very harmful effect on your teeth. Each tooth has a hard protective layer called the enamel. When acids come in contact with the enamel, the acids can make it soft. When this happens repeatedly, your enamel can wear away and cavities can be created.
The chance of getting cavities increases for those whose teeth are regularly exposed to drinks with high acid content. It is impossible to make a complete list but any carbonated beverage tops the list. Diet sodas, regular sodas, Gatorade, energy drinks and fruit drinks are the main culprits. We are often asked what drinks are best...water is the only answer. Soft drink damage to our teenagers and young adults has become an epidemic so please watch the diet of your children as well as yourself.
Another major acid source is stomach acid. Heartburn, burps, etc. are all indicators of acid reaching your mouth from your stomach. You don't have to be bulimic to have the negative effects of stomach acid dissolving your teeth.
The best way to avoid acid damage is to avoid all sodas and only moderately drink fruit juices. Rinsing, flossing, and chewing sugar free gum after eating during the day can be helpful.