Most individuals don’t think of a tooth as a body part that varies in strength. Our teeth seem to have a steady hardness and they dependably grind food whenever we need them. However, teeth are dynamic organisms with nonstop chemical processes.
The protective enamel that covers the softer interior consists of minerals. Enamel demineralizes and loses some of its density when it comes in contact with acids. This can weaken an individual’s dental health in Boise. Saliva can dilute and neutralize acid so the tooth can re-harden. However, this process isn’t instantaneous.
How Food Can Affect Dental Health in Boise
While the enamel is soft, the tooth is susceptible to losing a microscopic outer layer of enamel. If the erosion continues, the much softer dentin is exposed. The dentin erodes more quickly. Eventually, the tooth may need to be extracted.
It is apparent that the ordinary American diet is becoming more acidic. The list of acidic foods may surprise you. They include eggs, gravy, asparagus, chicken, cottage cheese, honey, fish, ham, butter, sour cream, aged cheese, and yogurt with active cultures. Generally, foods with a high sugar or artificial sweetener content are especially acidic. We don’t recommend eliminating the healthy foods on this list, however, we just want you to be aware of the issue.
How Liquids Can Affect Dental Health
Now let’s talk about liquids. You probably already know that soda pop and wine are not good for dental health in Boise. Teens that sip soda all day can have acid erosion while their young teeth should be at their healthiest. In addition to soda, energy drinks are very popular and dentists are noticing the consequences. If you drink soda or energy drinks often, you may want to drink water or chew sugarless gum after downing a can. Increasing saliva production can energize the remineralization process.
If your teeth have become more sensitive in general, or in response to hot or cold foods or beverages, you may have acid erosion. To schedule an examination with Blaisdell Family Dentistry, call 208-377-9696 today. We also offer sedation dentistry, porcelain veneers, and dental implants.
Contact Blaisdell Family Dentistry:
208-377-9696
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
8877 W Hackamore Dr
Boise, Idaho
83709
