Do you have any pending summer traveling plans? Many people dream of a tropical paradise for their biggest vacations. If you’ve ever been to Hawaii, or know anything about their tourism culture, you probably assign the pineapple as one of the many symbols of the state. Fortunately, these days you can find pineapple in just about any grocery store in America. Pineapples are nutritious, delicious, and versatile. You can bake chunks or rings into cakes, puree the fruit as a delicious base for a co*cktail, or simply eat pineapple. Unfortunately for your dental health, pineapples are highly acidic. Southlake dentists, Drs. Gregory Wright and Victoria Heron have some good advice on how to enjoy acidic fruits such as refreshing pineapple without eroding your tooth enamel.
Acid Damages your Smile
Acid of any sort is simply bad for your teeth. You may consume acid more than you realize, as it is found in various foods and drinks, including fruits you might think are great for your health. Acid is also a by-product of oral bacteria which consume sucrose (sugar and refined carbohydrates). The good news is your tooth enamel is the strongest substance in your body, and it coats your teeth to protect them from bacteria. Once acid softens your tooth enamel, however, you are still highly susceptible to decay. Tooth sensitivity, cavities, and the unsightly appearance of severely decaying teeth are unfortunate side effects of enamel erosion. Fruits highest in acid include lemons, limes, oranges, kiwis, and pineapples.
Avoiding Tooth Enamel Damage
Luckily, if you love these more sour fruits, you can still eat them (and drink acidic beverages such as pineapple and orange juice) without damaging your tooth enamel. Start by cutting the fruit into bite sized pieces. As you consume the small chunks, aim for your back teeth rather than lingering the fruit chunks in the front. Use a straw when you drink acidic beverages, and don’t swish them around in your mouth. In short, avoid as much contact between acidic fruits and teeth as possible. Don’t brush right away. Wait about 30 minutes. However, do rinse your mouth with water after consuming something with a high acid content. You can also chew a piece of sugar-free gum with xylitol to neutralize acid before you have the all clear to brush your teeth.
ABOUT YOUR SOUTHLAKE GENERAL DENTISTS:
As a native Texan, Dr. Gregory Wright opened his private practice in Southlake, TX in 1992. He and Dr. Victoria Heron are happily accepting new patients from Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, Trophy Club, Colleyville, and all surrounding communities. To learn more, call our office today at (817) 481-7999.
