Q: Are certain foods more detrimental than others to dental health?
A.: Yes, sipping or holding acidic drinks in the mouth before swallowing increases the risk of erosion on dental enamel. Dental enamel is the thin, outer layer of hard tissue that helps maintain the tooth's structure and shape while protecting it from decay.
Most commercial soft drinks contain acids, which act to break down tooth surfaces. These acids also damage tooth enamel over time by dissolving the mineral structure of teeth, thinning the teeth. Eventually, because of repeated exposure to acid, the tooth's enamel will lose its shape and color. As the damage progresses, the underlying dentin (the tissue that makes up the core of each tooth) becomes exposed, causing the teeth to look yellow. To prevent tooth erosion, wait at least 20 minutes after consuming an acidic food or beverage before brushing the teeth, so as not to destroy the weakened enamel.
Dentists say you should eat acidic foods all at the same time, instead of snacking on them throughout the day. Eat these foods only during meal times to minimize the amount of time the acid is on your teeth.
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