Acid reflux is when acid produced by the stomach moves up into the oesophagus causing a heartburn, that same acid can cause wear of the enamel leading to enamel erosion leaving the teeth vulnerable to cavities and decay. The first clue may be that hot and cold foods ,drinks and sweets now would start bothering your teeth that is because these substances are getting in via the holes in your enamel and aggravating the nerves within.
Here are certain tips to prevent acid reflux from damaging your teeth:- 1. Half yearly dental check-up for full cleaning and keeping a check on your enamel.
2. Keeping acid reflux under control starting with a visit to your our gastroenterologist who may advice u you to lose weight, reduce acidic foods, eat smaller meals, improve lifestyle,quit smoking etc.
3. Review your diet by cutting back on sodas, citrus fruits.
4. If you must drink soda or juice drink with a straw so the liquid bypasses your teeth.
5. Chew on sugar free chewing gums to reduce the amount of acid in your mouth by producing more saliva.
6. After eating acidic food avoid brushing immediately because acidic food tend to soften he enamel and you would not want to start hard brushing on soft enamel.
7. Choose fluoridated toothpastes and mouth rinses.
8. Eat a piece of cheese or have a glass of milk to reduce the effects of acids.
9. Swish mouth with water after eating and drinking anything.
10. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
11. Your dentist may advice your for an application of dental varnish which consists of fluoride and would prevent your teeth from the harmful effects of acids.
BOTTOMLINE is to stay on top of your dental health, especially if you have GEARD (gastroeosophageal reflux syndrome) because patients are often not aware of the damage that reflux can cause on teeth so an early diagnosis is important so that care can be taken in initial stages to prevent further enamel damage.
Please note dental enamel begins to erode at a pH of 5.5, consider that your stomach acid has an pH of 2.0 which means it is very harmful for your teeth.
Its never too late, visit your dentist now..
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