Tooth enamel is a tissue sensitive to variations in the pH of our saliva. However, sometimes without even noticing it, tooth wear caused by acids in the mouth decreases the amount of enamel, which is the tissue that protects our teeth. It is essential to understand how these acids affect our oral health and what steps we can take to prevent unnecessary damage.

What are oral acids and how do they affect teeth?

When we eat, there is a mixture of saliva, bacteria and food in our mouth. When we consume foods and drinks, especially those rich in sugars and carbohydrates, the bacteria present in our mouth produce acids as a result of their metabolic activity. These acids attack tooth enamel, the protective layer that covers our teeth. Tooth enamel is crucial to keeping our teeth strong and protected. However, when weakened by acids, teeth become more susceptible to wear, decay, and tooth sensitivity. Additionally, tooth wear can lead to more serious problems, such as tooth erosion.

The main Causes of Tooth Wear due to Acids are:

1. Consumption of Acidic Foods and Drinks:

Foods and drinks like citrus fruits, carbonated soft drinks, tomatoes, and vinegar may be delicious, but they are also acidic. Frequent contact with these foods can significantly contribute to tooth wear.

2. Gastric Reflux:

People who suffer from gastric reflux experience regurgitation of stomach acids into the mouth. These acids are powerful and can cause considerable damage to tooth enamel over time.

3. Low Salivation:

Saliva plays a key role in neutralizing acids in the mouth and assisting in the remineralization of tooth enamel. Lack of adequate salivation can cause acids to remain in contact with the teeth longer, increasing the risk of wear.

How to prevent tooth wear:

1. Moderation in Acid Consumption:

Reduce consumption of high-acid foods and drinks such as sugary soft drinks or acidic foods such as lemon or vinegar. If you enjoy these products, do so in small quantities and in the context of a meal, as this can reduce the acid impact.

2. Mouthwash with Water:

After consuming acidic foods, rinse your mouth with at least water if you don’t have the option to brush your teeth. This helps neutralize the drop in saliva pH caused by acids and reduce their impact on tooth enamel.

3.Avoid Brushing Immediately After Eating:

The acids temporarily weaken tooth enamel. Brushing immediately after eating acids can increase wear and tear. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.

4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:

Brush your teeth twice a day with a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Floss regularly to remove plaque between your teeth. Mouthwash is not essential, but it will help neutralize the acids in your saliva.

5. Treat Gastric Reflux Problems:

If you experience acid reflux frequently, see your digestive disorders doctor to address this problem. Treatment can help prevent further damage to tooth enamel. You probably have acid in your saliva constantly and this is damaging your tooth enamel.

6. Chew Sugar-Free Gum:

Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and strengthen tooth enamel.

Taking care of our teeth is crucial to maintaining good oral health throughout life. By understanding the risks of tooth wear caused by acids and following preventative practices, we can preserve the strength and beauty of our smile. Remember, small changes in your daily habits can make a big difference in the health of your teeth.