Research shows a smile is one of the first things we notice when meeting other people. National Smile Month is a perfect time to offer advice on the threats to teeth posed by acids in our diet.
In my busy dental practice I find that new patients are mostly unaware of the dangers to their smile caused by hidden acids.
Be acid aware
As we all enjoy acidic drinks like juices, wine or fizzy drinks from time to time, consider the following to minimise damage.
Avoid repeated sipping, down the drink in as few mouthfuls as possible.
Chill the drink – less acid is available (chemistry).
Drink through a straw so the liquid does not touch your teeth.
Don’t drink out of cans – the acid is concentrated on your top front teeth which dissolves them faster.
Fact – artificial sweeteners are “stickier” than sugar, causing acids in man made drinks to adhere to teeth for longer resulting in more damage.
Beware of drinks labelled “diet”, “low sugar” or “no added sugar”.
Read the small print on man made drinks – culprit chemicals to avoid are phosphoric acid and citric acid. Sugars will be labelled ending in – ose, for example glucose, sucrose and fructose.
Top tips for keeping a healthy, happy and confident smile are as follows:-
Be well informed about threats to the health of your teeth and gums.
Ask questions about the health of your mouth at your regular dental examination and hygiene appointments.
Give bacteria the brush off, spend 2 minutes twice a day and get your dentist to show you how to remove plaque thoroughly and effectively.
Brush teeth before meals, snacks to remove bacteria that will produce acid from sugar.
Chris Edmonds & Associates
Sedgefield Dental Practice
01740 621040
