Acidic Foods And How They Affect Your Teeth

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, which measures acidity or alkalinity levels (also known as the basicity) of any substance. You can also measure the ph balance of foods, liquids, and even the saliva in your mouth. Substances that fall below a pH of 7 are considered acidic, and those above seven are alkaline.

While you're not eating or drinking, your saliva should stay close to the neutral range of 6.5 to 7.5 pH. This range is perfect for preventing acid eroding your enamel and tooth decay.

High-acid foods can cause decay, sensitivity, and discoloration. That is why it's important to consume them in moderation. Here are some highly acidic foods and drinks to be mindful of:

• Citrus fruits — lemons, limes, grapefruits, tangerines, and oranges
• Apples, grapes, peaches, pomegranates, blueberries, pineapples
• Fruit juices and sodas (both regular and diet)
• Tomatoes and tomato juice
• Jams and jellies
• Vinegar
• Sauerkraut

Make an effort to eat and drink foods that would not contribute to erosion, like these non-acidic foods and non-acidic beverages:

• Beans, including black, soy, kidney, and lima
• Corn, peas, peppers, asparagus, spinach, and broccoli
• Fish, including salmon, shrimp, and crab meat
• Cheeses
• Bread
• Tofu
• Green tea
• Potatoes, rice, and yams
• Watermelons, cantaloupes, and honeydew melons
• Ripe mangoes, bananas, and papayas

As hard as tooth enamel is, the high acid content in many foods and juices can cause it to weaken and demineralize over time. The calcium in saliva can help strengthen enamel, but when the environment in your mouth is too acidic, remineralization will not occur, which leads to tooth erosion and decay. Some common signs of erosion include:

• Sensitivity — Hot and cold foods, strongly-flavored sweets, and even cold air can produce sensitivity when in contact with your teeth.
• Discoloration — Your teeth might appear slightly yellower as your enamel becomes thinner, exposing the dentin underneath.
• Rounded teeth — Teeth may appear to have softer or sanded edges or as if there are small dents along the chewing surface.
• Transparency — The edges of your incisors (front teeth) may lessen in opacity, appearing as if you can almost see through them.
• Cracks — Tiny faults or a sharpness along the edges of the teeth are also common.

You don't have to give up acidic foods to prevent erosion. Here are a few tips to keep your teeth healthy:

• Never suck on lemons, limes, or any highly acidic fruit. Putting these fruits against your teeth for any period of time is a sure way to soften the enamel on your teeth.
• Use a straw when drinking fruit juices. This keeps it from coming in direct contact with your teeth.
• Rinse your mouth with water after eating fruit to dilute the acids in your mouth, and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to give your enamel time to resettle.
• Keep your enamel strong by brushing with fluoride toothpaste.
• Eat cheese after your fruit. Cheese helps raise the pH levels in your mouth and increases saliva production, which also aids in neutralizing acids.

Of course, it's essential to eat a balanced diet — with lots of fruits and vegetables — to get enough vitamin C. Remember to take precautions to keep acidic foods from hurting your teeth. To promote healthy teeth, brush, and floss daily, add more non-acidic foods to your diet and limit your consumption of acidic foods and drinks. Visit your dentist regularly to discuss your enamel and ways to maintain a healthy smile.

Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.