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Posted on 1/20/2020 by Jared Anderson, DDS |
 Although brushing your teeth is one of the most important elements of your oral health routine, brushing immediately after eating certain acidic foods or beverages can cause more damage to your teeth and gums than waiting for a period of time to brush. Brushing is your best defense against tooth decay in between visits to our office for routine cleanings or other procedures but consider what you have just eaten before deciding to brush your teeth. Which Foods and Drinks Are Acidic?Foods containing citric acid, such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits, as well as juices made from them, soften your tooth enamel for a brief time, in which you should avoid brushing your teeth. If you wait at least 30 minutes, your enamel is in a less weakened state. In addition, phosphoric acid found in soft drinks is erosive to your enamel, which can result in permanent damage to your teeth. Eating nutritious snacks that are low in carbs and sugar after consuming acidic foods and beverages can help reduce these harmful acids. Can I Prevent Damage from Consuming Acidic Foods or Beverages?There are flavors that come with acidic foods and beverages that are appealing to the taste buds of many, including tart, salty, and bitter. Our mouths crave these flavors at times, so it would be a shame to live without them. One way to counteract the damage done by acidic foods and beverages to your teeth and inside your body is to eat alkaline-producing foods at a 3:1 ratio with acidic ones. No preventive practices, such as waiting to brush or avoiding acidic foods, will replace regular dental care in our office, but they can go a long way in preserving your oral health. For more information about your diet as it relates to your dental care, please contact our office. |
Advanced Dental Associates
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