Acid Reflux and Your Teeth

According to U.S. Department of health and human services, more than seven million people suffer from severe acid reflux.  Acid reflux causing erosion of the dental enamel is usually overlooked until it has reached advanced stages and has begun to cause some serious damage.

The acidity of a substance is measured by its pH levels.  The lower the level of a pH the more acidic it is.  Tooth enamel can start to wear away at the pH level of 5.5. Stomach acid has a pH of 2.0 which is very acidic and can cause a lot of harm to your teeth.

Some foods that can cause acid reflux are spicy foods, acidic foods and beverages, fatty foods, and fried foods. Also dairy products can cause this problem.  If you are diagnosed with acid reflux:  Stay away from tomatoes, acidic foods and beverages, spicy and fried foods, and also caffeinated beverages.

If you do have an acid reflux attack do not brush your teeth immediately due to the fact that you could be brushing away the weakened enamel thus causing more damage.  Rinse with water, or water with baking soda added.  Acid reflux should be treated not only at an oral level but also treated by a physician so future damage can be avoided.

Dr. Julie Pruneski is the dentist and owner of Whispering Pines Dental located at 690 Cooper Foster Park Road in Lorain, Ohio.  Dr. Pruneski is a current member of the American Dental Association, Ohio Dental Association, Lorain County Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and American Academy of Facial Esthetics.  To reserve an appointment with Dr. Pruneski, call 440-282-2023.  Check us out online at www.whisperingpinesdental.com and on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/whisperingpinesdental.

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