Dentist in Bay Shore, NY Share Effects of Acid Reflux on Oral Health

Suffering from acid reflux doesn’t just cause annoying heartburn, but it can also come into your mouth and lead to tooth damage. Most often acid reflux is caused by the foods and drinks we consume, so let’s look at ways to reverse the effects of acid reflux.

 

Acid Reflux Damages Teeth

 

We use hydrogen or the pH of something to measure the acidic levels of the substance. This is done with a scale of 1-14. When something has a low pH, it is acidic. In the same respect, when the product has a high pH, it isn’t acidic and won’t lead to acid reflux. 

 

Your dental enamel is at risk with anything that has a pH level of 5.5 or lower.  Your stomach tends to have a pH level of 2.0, so the acids in your stomach are dangerous to your teeth.

 

Acid reflux also causes damage to the throat, lungs and esophagus. What most people don’t talk about is what it does to the teeth, but the reality is that left untreated, acid reflux can lead to tooth loss.

Symptoms occurring in your mouth that point to acid reflux include:

• Sensitivity to the teeth from hot, cold or sugary foods

• Overall discoloration or transparency of the teeth

• Teeth that are pitted

• Rounded or filed edges of the teeth

 

You can help the acid reflux by watching what you eat.

 

Foods to avoid if you suffer from acid reflux:

• Coffee

• Tea

• Caffeinated beverages

• Chocolate

• Acidic fruits

• Tomatoes

• Alcohol

 

Instead, opt for items that will benefit your digestive system like chicken breast, green vegetables, brown rice, oatmeal and melons. You also want to ensure that you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

 

Most people do not notice the warning signs of reflux until it is too late. Treating acid reflux early is key to protecting your teeth and gums. That’s why you want to make sure you visit your dentists in Bay Shore, NY twice a year for a checkup. The dentist is capable of noticing warning signs before you. These simple visits could prevent you from needing costly or painful treatments later. Bay Dental Health can be reached at (631) 665-8484, we look forward to your call!