Q: How can I minimize the wear on my teeth enamel?
A: Your tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body. However, it is susceptible to wear and tear just like any other body part.
Some food and liquid that passes through our mouth are more corrosive to enamel than others. For instance, though fruit and fruit juice are good for us, those containing citric acid, like oranges, lemons, and grapefruit, can potentially damage tooth enamel. In addition, carbonated drinks can contribute to the deterioration of enamel; you should consume them in moderation.
Be careful about the toothpaste you use. Avoid toothpaste with abrasives, even though they may be marketed as tooth-whitening, stain-removing marvels.
Chewable tablets, like those for vitamin C, aspirin, or iron, can be corrosive, as can repeated vomiting from alcoholism or bulimia. Refluxed gastric acid from a hiatal hernia or other medical condition also damages teeth. If you are concerned about enamel erosion, minimize contact with teeth when drinking acidic juices. Use a straw, for instance. And with medicines or supplements that can be corrosive, take them in a solid form that you can swallow immediately.
If you, your family, or friends need dental care, we would be honored to provide you with state-of-the-art dental care in our modern dental practice. Refer someone you love to someone you trust!
Presented as a service to the community by Doctors Hoover and Yanda,
39 Milford Drive, Hudson, Ohio 44236. 330-650-0360.