How much damage do acidic foods actually cause?

Teeth are directly damaged from the consumption of acidic foods. When a person eats acidic foods, tooth enamel becomes damaged, leading to erosion. When combined with sugar, this can also lead to decay.

The over-consumption of acidic foods is becoming quite an epidemic, with as many as 60% of children showing evidence of tooth erosion, according to the British Dental Association.

The process of erosion

How much damage do acidic foods actually cause

The reason why acidic foods are so harmful is their pH level, which causes tooth enamel to wear away. As a result, affected teeth begin to discolour, teeth begin to weaken, and tooth sensitivity becomes a real issue over time. Demineralisation will also occur – which can eventually lead to tooth decay.

The process of acid erosion is as follows:

  1. Tooth enamel becomes weakened
  2. Teeth become visibly thinner
  3. Eventually, teeth can appear transparent
  4. Discolouration begins as the yellow dentine layer becomes more visible
  5. Teeth begin to look dull
  6. Further risk of tooth decay and tooth sensitivity

Harmful food and drink

How much damage do acidic foods actually cause

Some acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, are more obvious than others. But did you know that coffee and alcohol was acidic too? Other harmful foods and drinks with a high acidity level include:

Reducing the impact of acidic foods

How much damage do acidic foods actually cause

Ultimately, it’s a good idea to avoid acidic foods where possible, but this isn’t always an option. Plus, some acidic foods offer many health benefits – so eat them in moderation rather than cut them completely out of your diet.

In cases where you’re consuming acidic foods, team them with alkaline foods or lower pH foods to tone down the acidity of a meal and neutralise the acid on and around your teeth. Higher pH foods that are more alkaline include:

Popular combinations include fruit and nuts, juice and yoghurt, and wine and cheese. These perfect pairings neutralise acidity and promote remineralisation of tooth enamel.

After eating or drinking acidic foods or drinks, enamel becomes softened. While it’s a good idea to brush your teeth after a meal, brushing too soon will only speed up the process of acid attack as you brush and damage your acid-coated teeth. Instead, have plenty of water to drink after your meal and consider chewing sugar-free gum. Both of these activities will produce saliva, which will cleanse your mouth. Thirty or so minutes after a meal you can think about brushing your teeth.

For more information about acid erosion, or to get your teeth checked over, book an appointment to see your AP Smilecare dentist today. We’ll be able to assess the current state of your teeth and give you some tips on how to improve and enhance your oral health.

Have you managed to limit the number of acidic foods you consume? If so, how? Share your tips with us in the comments below or tweet us @APSmilecare