Beware of an Acidic Diet

Most people understand that the foods they consume have a direct effect on their health. But did you know that certain foods may send you to the dentist for treatment for oral health problems.

In particularly, the best dentists inLewisvilleoften recommend limiting acidic foods, like oranges, tomatoes, vinegar and soda.

Acids can eat away at the tooth’s enamel, and dentists often see patients who develop problems like tooth sensitivity or decay from eating too many acidic foods.

Keep in mind that acid can be present in your mouth even if you don’t directly ingest highly acidic foods. Oral bacteria feed on sugars in the mouth, and acid is one of the byproducts of that metabolic process. If you want to reduce the levels of acids in your mouth, restrict sugary snacks in addition to acidic ones.

Some acidic foods, especially fruits, offer other health benefits, so you may not want to eliminate them. If you really enjoy eating these foods and don’t want to give them up completely, be sure to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Brush at least twice a day to help clear harmful substances from the surface of your teeth, and floss daily to keep plaque and bacteria to a minimum.

You can also reduce the effects of acidic foods by pairing them with non-acidic foods that neutralize the acids. Brushing the teeth at least a half hour before eating an acidic food can also offer a layer of protection for the teeth. On the other hand, brushing immediately after eating something acidic can actually exacerbate erosion of the enamel, which will be more sensitive at that time.

Some companies also offer toothpastes with a special formula designed to counteract the presence of acids in the mouth.

It’s important to be aware of how the foods you eat influence your oral health. Talk to your dentist about the foods that you enjoy to make sure that you are not unwittingly damaging your smile through your diet.