You may assume that as long as you’re doing your best to steer clear of highly acidic things like orange juice that you’re not going to end up with a high level of acid in your mouth, which bodes quite well for your oral health! However, our Ankeny, IA team reminds you that when it comes to acid, it’s not just about acids that you consume. It’s also about additional factors that create an environment in which the pH of your mouth drops toward the acid end of the scale. Learn more, so you’re not accidentally overlooking simple yet damaging details!
#1: Morning Sickness
If you’re suffering from morning sickness, then this may include heightened acidity if you deal with vomiting. Remember, unpleasant as it is for you to go through, the process can also become damaging to the strength and health of your teeth because the contents of your stomach are quite acidic! Don’t panic, though. Like anything else, keeping your mouth neutral means swishing with H2O, so you rinse teeth clean. Also: This won’t last forever! Need some additional care? Just let us know.
#2: Dry Mouth
You may not connect the dots between dry mouth and your oral health initially. However, once you remember that you require sufficient moisture (which means drinking enough water, producing saliva, etc.) to keep your smile safe, it will all make sense! Remember, a dry mouth is one without enough moisture, which means your usually steady saliva flow isn’t washing tissues clean of acid-producing bacteria. It may be time to address any ongoing congestion, to drink more water, and to schedule a visit!
#3: Food That Sticks To Teeth
If you bring up “good” versus “bad” foods during a dental checkup with us, as we discuss what’s safe and not-so-safe for your smile, remember that one of the worst culprits in raising acid levels is food that sticks to your teeth. This is usually going to be a carbohydrate rich food, whether it’s a candy, fruit, or something like raisins. Once stuck on your teeth, the carbohydrates aren’t immediately rinsed away. As a result, the bacteria within plaque and tartar will feed on the carbs, digesting them and releasing acids in the process. Your mouth is then quickly exposed to a surge in acids, which is dangerous for your oral health. Those acids coat teeth and come into contact with gum tissue, which promotes tooth decay, as well as gum disease! Strive, instead, for foods that don’t stick to teeth or do your best to rinse when you’re through eating.
Learn To Minimize Oral Acid Levels
Speak with our team during your next dental checkup about what you can do to minimize the development of acid in your mouth. Keep up with the basics of daily prevention, along with our advice, for a healthy smile. Visit us for a dental checkup in Ankeny, IA by contacting Dental Impressions to schedule a visit at (515) 965-0230.
