How do apples and other acidic fruits make an impact on your teeth and your overall dental health?
With fall almost in full swing, this year’s apple-picking season is at its peak. But did you know that as tasty as they are, apples are also incredibly acidic? How do apples and other acidic fruits make an impact on your teeth and your overall dental health? Join us as we take a closer look.
How is Acidity Measured?
How acidic, or basic, any food is, depends on its pH level. Any pH level above 7 means that it is alkaline, or basic. Anything under 7 means that it is acidic. Despite what you may think, or remember from science class, the lower on the acidic side of the scale a food is, the more acidic it is. The Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, has compiled a list of some of the most acidic fruits around. Some noteworthy fruits include:
- Lemon juice (2.0-2.6)
- Apples (3.33-4.0)
- Peaches (3.3-4.05)
- Oranges (3.69-4.34)
What Does Dental Erosion Mean?
The acid found in fruits and fruit juices can break your teeth enamel down. The softened spots of enamel may appear unsightly and discolored; extra sensitive to the temperature and sweetness of particular foods and drinks; and ultimately, decay to the point where specialized procedures are needed to repair them. While boosting your calcium intake and producing more saliva can help your teeth, if your mouth remains too acidic, then the enamel can’t be restored.
Preventing Dental Erosion
Don’t suck on acidic fruits. Also, use a straw when enjoying fruit juices. Then, be sure to rinse your teeth with some water and wait half an hour before brushing. Oh, and you can also eat some cheese to go with your fruit.
Vitamin C and Dental Health
Vitamin C is hugely important for dental health. It is also vital for tissue formation and maintenance all throughout your body. Even though they may not be obvious tissues, your bones, cartilage, and teeth all still count. The more Vitamin C you absorb, the better your body functions when it attempts to heal any wounds and fend off infections, including the damage left behind by gum disease. Be sure to get as much Vitamin C as you can. In case you didn’t realize it, all of that Vitamin C won’t just come from drinking orange juice. You can also indulge a craving for cantaloupes, or kiwis, mangos, pineapples, watermelons, and berries, too.
Care for the Whole Family from Annapolis Dental Center
Whether you need a tooth extraction or just want to get a dental health check-up, Annapolis Dental Center has the expertise and compassion to work with you to improve your oral health and get you smiling again. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy with the services that they receive. To set up your appointment today, give us a call at (410) 571-5014 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and the whole family, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and check us out on Yelp!