Everyone enjoys a sweet treat now and then, but many popular snacks and beverages—including fresh fruit and juice—are highly acidic and can impact your teeth. The dentists at Hill Country Dental Associates in Kerrville, TX, often see patients who are exhibiting early signs of enamel erosion due to an acidic diet. Here, they explain how these foods and drinks can affect your smile and what you can do to prevent a serious oral health problem.

How Acid Affects Teeth

All substances can be rated along the pH scale to determine how acidic they are. Tap water typically comes in near the middle of this scale, usually between a 6.5 and 8.5 rating. Numbers below this range indicate the presence of acid, and the lower the number, the more acidic a food or beverage is. Some examples include citrus fruit, juice, flavored carbonated water, and gummy snacks.

When you consume too many of these items, the acid slowly eats away at your tooth enamel. Over time, the tooth’s nerve will become exposed, leading to increased sensitivity and risk for infection. Left untreated, these problems might result in a root canal or tooth extraction.

Dentist-Approved Steps to Prevent Acid Erosion

Thankfully, you don’t need to give up your favorite snacks to preserve your smile. Be mindful when eating and brush and floss your teeth after snacks and meals. If you don’t have a toothbrush handy, rinse with water instead. 

Mindless snacking is commonly associated with weight gain, but it can also lead to dental problems. Eating acidic foods throughout the day allows sugar to linger in your mouth and increase the risk of enamel erosion. Since acid and sugar both soften tooth enamel, dentists recommend waiting a few minutes before brushing and flossing to avoid damaging this protective layer of your teeth.

To learn more about lifestyle changes that will improve your oral health, talk to the team at Hill Country Dental Associates. This practice is staffed by friendly dentists who provide preventative care treatments to keep your smile healthy. Whether you are due for a cleaning or need a tooth extraction, you will receive quality care in a comfortable environment. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (830) 257-3000 to make an appointment.