You probably are aware of dental cavities, tooth decay, and related tooth problems. And that sugar feeds the bacteria that cause this decay.
The effects of acid on teeth are understated. Not the acid most people know about, but the natural acids in foods and drinks, such as orange juice.
Continuous exposure to these acids can cause dental erosion. They gradually wear away the hard tissues of your teeth, often referred to as acid wear.
And while orange juice may sound like a healthy idea, they contain acids that contribute significantly to dental problems and erosion. The erosion can also increase the risk of tooth decay.
In this article, we discuss on Dental Erosion: Acid in Orange Juices Increases Risk. And oranges are some of the most acidic fruits.
Why oranges are some of the most acidic fruits
Making some fresh orange juice at home is a common phenomenon. The truth is, oranges are some of the most acidic fruits. That is due to the high content of ascorbic acid, also popularly known as vitamin C. That increases their PH levels.
As much as orange juice is a great source of healthy fiber and vitamins, it may increase the risk of dental erosion. It decreases the hardness of the tooth enamel and increases its roughness. That is a result of their high acid content.
Some of the telltale signs of tooth erosion include:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Tooth discoloration
- Tooth change in appearance
- Preventing acid erosion in teeth
It is essential to take the necessary measures to keep your teeth from acid wear. During the first stages of erosion, the acid tends to strip away the top layers of the tooth enamel. It then exposes the next layer or even the central pap.
If not checked, dental erosion may slowly lead to the loss of tooth structure, which calls for expensive dental treatments to restore them.
That said, you do not have to stay away from your favorite orange drink, especially since it offers numerous benefits to your health. Some of the tips to observe include:
- Drinking plenty of water between juices
- Try drinking your juice while eating meals to benefit from the extra saliva getting produced. That helps to neutralize the acid.
- Using a reusable straw to sip on your orange juice to reduce its exposure to your teeth
- Rinsing your mouth after drinking orange juice
- Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste to keep them strong
Also, dental erosion from brushing your teeth is a real risk. You don’t want to brush your teeth immediately after consuming orange juice. That is because its combination with brushing can cause your teeth to lose enamel. Also, waiting for a while before you can brush your teeth allows the saliva’s protective agents to rebuild tooth enamel that gets damaged by acidity.
Conclusion
If you love to enjoy your orange drink at home or enjoying an orange juice at your favorite vegan café, consuming it in moderation can make all the difference. If you are concerned about dental erosion, you must visit a professional dentist. They will advise you on the steps to take, help you take an inventory of your diet, and teach you how to take better care of your teeth.
