Acids, Bases, And Your Dental Hygiene
You probably already know that your teeth represent a living system. Everything from the enamel in the very surface of your teeth to the pulp and roots inside is part of the complex organic system that sustains your entire body.
The process of losing enamel to cavities and other problems is also a completely biological process. For example, the plaque that forms on your teeth is the result of bacteria trying to colonize your mouth.
Within a very short time of eating, bacteria are active in your mouth by the millions. They are attracted to the particles of food on your teeth and quickly form a thin, but strong “biofilm” on the surface of your teeth that forms into plaque.
However, plaque isn’t the only major threat to your enamel: There’s also acid.
Acid? Yes!
Many of the things that people consume every day are acidic. In fact, every food is either acidic or the opposite, alkaline, to some degree. Orange juice, for example, is highly acidic. Coffee is also acidic, but not nearly as much as citrus foods like orange juice.
Acidic Foods Can Damage Your Enamel And Make It More Prone To Staining
Your teeth and gums are constantly fighting a battle against colonizing bacteria, and acidic foods can weaken the outer layer of your enamel. This could contribute to the development of cavities.
However, there is another challenge you should be aware of. The outer layer of the teeth is highly permeable, and acidic foods make it easier for things to permeate more deeply.
In effect, this means that dark liquids such as coffee and soda, and other darkening agents such as tobacco smoke, could penetrate more deeply into the enamel of your teeth as a result of high consumption of acidic foods.
What To Do About Acidic Foods And Dental Health
If citrus fruit is one of your favorite things, you don’t have to give up on it completely to make sure that you are protecting your teeth.
Instead, consider using a mild mouthwash shortly after each meal with a highly acidic food. This will keep the acid itself from sitting on your teeth.
While you should try to brush your teeth after every meal, brushing immediately after having a highly acidic meal can further damage your enamel. Wait at least half an hour or rinse first.
Want a professional teeth cleaning? Your mouth could feel better in as little as half an hour. Call Community Dental Group today.