Family and Cosmetic Dentist - Livonia
31574 Schoolcraft Road
Livonia, MI 48150
(734) 425-4530
More and more people these days are making a conscious effort to replace unhealthy snacks with fruit, and soda with fruit juice. At the same time, dentists are beginning to notice more signs of acid wear on patients' teeth. The explanation for this paradox is that it isn't what you eat or drink, but how you consume them.
To counteract the effect of fruits and other acidic foods on tooth enamel, it helps to pair the foods with cheese or nuts. For example, consider munching on a few nuts after finishing your apple. Similarly, balance the acidic effect of your glass of wine or juice by following it with some cheese. These healthy pairings are delicious ways to protect your teeth while adding additional health benefits to your diet.
Fruit juices are another deceptive choice. While obviously better than soda from a nutritional standpoint, fruit juices do contain natural sugars and acids. Parents feeding their baby juice are urged to wipe their child's teeth and gums with a soft, wet washcloth following the feeding, and to never to let the baby fall asleep with a bottle of juice in his or her mouth.
Following an acidic food or drink, remember to rinse your mouth with water, but don't brush. Brushing can actually expedite the acid's eroding effect on the teeth. Wait at least an hour, allowing enough time for the acidity in your mouth to neutralize before you brush.
Please ask us about tooth-friendly snacks, and other ways to fight acid erosion on your teeth.