HEALTH - Keeping the dentist at bay

WE all know we should brush our teeth twice a day in order for them to stay in tip-top condition. We also know that chocolate, sweets and fizzy drinks can be bad for our teeth. But did you know that some of the healthier foods you consume call also be disastrous for your gnashers? Yes, that’s right, an apple a day might keep the doctor away, but not necessarily the dentist.

Research from toothpaste manufacturer Sensodyne Pronamel has revealed that nearly eight out of 10 of us are at risk of developing acid erosion as a result of our dietary habits, and this could eventually affect the appearance of our teeth and cause sensitivity.

Acid erosion of teeth is mainly caused by the acids found in common food and drinks. In the survey, the majority of respondents were fully aware that fizzy drinks could cause damage, but nearly half were unaware that other drinks usually thought of as healthier options could also cause harm. You may also be forgiven for not knowing that fruit can pose a risk to your teeth, as well as the vinaigrettes often used as salad dressings.

So, what on earth is acid erosion and is it as bad as it sounds? Acid erosion occurs when acid from food and drink comes into contact with teeth, temporarily softening the tooth’s hard enamel surface. When we then brush our teeth, the enamel can be worn away more easily and become thinner over time. It is indeed as bad as it sounds.

And there’s more bad news. Apparently, it’s not just what we eat and drink that can cause problems, but how we eat and drink too.

A significant 79 per cent of respondents admitted to eating and drinking habits that could cause erosion. Over half of those people questioned said they consumed acidic drinks without a straw, 47 per cent regularly covered food with sauces and dressings such as acidic balsamic vinegar and nearly one-third sucked on acidic orange segments.

Nutritionist Anita Bean, an expert in acid erosion, says: “Most of us know that chocolate is bad for teeth, due to sugar-related tooth decay. However, acid erosion is one of the biggest threats to tooth enamel this century and, as the research shows, people are far less aware of how they can best protect teeth from this condition.” But before you panic and start to wonder what on earth it is safe to eat and drink, there are a few simple habits you can adopt that mean you won’t have to give up your healthy five-a-day just yet.

• When having an acidic drink, use a straw angled towards the back of the mouth to help keep your teeth protected.

• Drink water after eating or drinking anything acidic – this will help to wash the acid away – or chew gum to stimulate the production of saliva, which can neutralise the acid.

• After an acidic meal, consider eating some enamel-friendly foods such as low-fat cheese or nuts, as this will help to restore the pH balance in your mouth.

• After consuming acidic food or drinks, wait at least an hour before brushing your teeth. This hour is when enamel is at its softest and so most at risk.

• Visit your dentist regularly – only a dental professional can diagnose acid erosion.

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