Sachin Seth is associate professor with the Faculty of Dentistry at Dalhousie University
Both frequency and duration of acid exposure can affect our enamel. Dental professionals are particularly concerned about duration, and many of us have bad habits that subject our enamel to prolonged acidic attacks – and acid wear.
"A lot of people drink water with a slice of lemon in it and sip on it throughout the day – creating a constant acidic environment inside their mouth," says Sachin Seth, associate professor with the Faculty of Dentistry at Dalhousie University in Halifax. "I have seen people who end up with acid wear from drinking this way every day over a period of months."
"For both acidic and sugary foods and beverages, one of the best things you can do is limit the total time of intake," advises Dr. Seth. "It's better to down a large glass of orange juice in five minutes than to drink it over a one-hour period."
In addition to avoiding lengthy acid exposures, other good habits will help guard against acid wear.
"If you have something acidic or sweet, chase it with plain water. Water is your best friend in terms of clearing out your mouth," he says. Dr. Seth also suggests chewing sugar-free gum for 15 or 20 minutes to clear away acidic or sugary food.
Milk and other dairy foods can also help neutralize acids.
People can also take steps to halt additional wear on their enamel when some damage has already occurred, he says.
"For people who have more advanced erosion, they can use fluoride rinses or talk to their dentist about getting professionally administered fluoride applications. This can help to strengthen tooth enamel, our teeth's protective armour."
Many dental experts advocate increased education on the importance of enamel and how to protect it. They include registered dental hygienist Lisa Frisch, who is a professor in both the dental hygiene and dental assisting programs at Durham College in Oshawa.
Dental professionals play a key role when they provide information to their patients, says Ms. Frisch. At the same time, she urges individuals to educate themselves. "Look at your nutrition, keep track of what you eat and drink, and find out which products have higher levels of acid. Knowledge can guide you to make necessary adjustments."
Ms. Frisch frequently advises her patients to reduce consumption of acidic food and drinks, while also explaining that they can minimize the risks when they are exposed to acidity.
"If you are going to have acid-rich beverages, consume them with meals," she says. "Have a coffee with dinner instead of drinking it throughout the day. This will reduce contact time with your teeth and allow the foods you eat to further neutralize the acidity."
“If you have something acidic or sweet, chase it with plain water. Water is your best friend in terms of clearing out your mouth.” |
Sachin Seth is associate professor with the Faculty of Dentistry at Dalhousie University |
Even though we might think we should rush off to brush our teeth after acid exposure, that can further harm our enamel, she says. "Once you have had acid, you should wait half an hour before you brush. Immediately after exposure, the acid has started to soften the enamel, and brushing the surface right away causes more dissolution and further damage."
It's best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. In addition, certain toothpastes are specially formulated to help strengthen tooth enamel to protect it from acid wear. You can ask your dentist or hygienist about Pronamel®, for example, which is also low in abrasion.
It's important to protect our oral health, including our enamel – while also considering our overall health.
Nicole Shuckett, a registered dietitian in private practice in Toronto, includes oral health as a vital component of her counselling services. She helps her clients understand that poor oral health can undermine the health of their entire body, and healthy teeth and gums help us get the nutrition we need as we age.
"Older people's health and quality of life can be compromised if they have poor oral health and can't chew well enough to get the nutrients they need," she says.
Ms. Shuckett also reminds clients that what's bad for their teeth is also commonly bad for their body – sugar, for example. However, the story is different when talking about something like fruit.
"Fruit is part of a healthy diet, even though we also recognize that high-acid fruits can harm your teeth," she says. "I would never advise people to eliminate fruit from their diet, but I would tell them to take steps to minimize the impacts on their teeth.
"You can the strike the right balance for your oral and overall physical health," says Ms Shuckett.
This content was produced by Randall Anthony Communications, in partnership with The Globe and Mail's advertising department. The Globe's editorial department was not involved in its creation.