Virginia Woolf says that one cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has no dined well. We often spoil ourselves with our desired foods at different times in our lives, and usually acidic foods are involved in these intermittent indulgences. As great as acidic foods can taste, however, they are not always good for our teeth. Foods with pH lower than 7 are acidic, and the range of saliva in the mouth should be between a 6.5 to a 7.5 when it is not eating or drinking.

What Foods Are Considered Acidic?

When thinking of foods with acidity, fruits are pretty high on this list. Fruits that are packed with vitamin C — such as oranges, lemons, apples, grapefruits, pineapples, blueberries, tangerines, to mention a few — tend to be highly acidic. As fruits are acidic, their fruit juices are too. Tomatoes and tomato juice, jam and jellies, pickles and cranberries are acidic. Carbonated drinks, sport drinks, yogurt, coffee, alcohol and vinegar are also acidic. The remains of potato chips that lingers in your mouth after eating them can also produce acid.

What Effects Do These Acidic Foods Have on Our Teeth?

Acidic foods can have an impact on the health of our body and also our teeth. The enamel and gum line are initial targets of this erosion. The enamel is very tough, but it can be weakened through continuous consumption of acidic foods. When the enamel weakens, the teeth’s dentin can be exposed, making it susceptible to sensitivity. Discoloration and/or decay may occur. Cracks along the edges of the teeth is also common.

How to Prevent Damage From Acidic Food

Obviously, we cannot avoid all the aforementioned food altogether, but we can avoid sucking on highly acidic beverages. Straws are a great option, as they help to keep juices from coming in contact with your teeth. Also, rinse your mouth out with water or brushing after consuming such food. To learn more about how to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of acid in food, please contact our offices for more information.

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