The basics of taking care of your teeth have been drilled into you since elementary school. You already know that brushing your teeth should take a full two minutes and flossing shouldn’t just happen right before your bi-yearly dentist appointments. You probably know that candy and soda cause cavities, too.
As an adult, you’ve likely gained more insight about what is and isn’t great for your teeth. For example, you know that regularly drinking coffee, tea and red wine can lead to staining, making your pearly whites not-so white anymore.
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But there are other habits that damage teeth that you might not be aware of. For example, did you know that biting your nails can increase the risk of gum infection? And that you shouldn’t brush your teeth immediately after drinking coffee? It’s true.
There’s also one food that, while healthy, can wear down your teeth without you even realizing it. Here, dentists reveal what it is and how you can protect your teeth without giving it up.
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The Healthy Food That Secretly Wears Down Your Teeth
There’s no question that citrus fruits like oranges, lemon and grapefruit are nutritious. Fruits like these are rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system. They’re also high in plant compounds called flavonoids, which help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Unfortunately, they aren’t so great for your smile.
“Oranges, or any citrus fruits, are acidic and create an acidic pH in the mouth. This causes erosion, or wearing of enamel over time,” says Dr. Kooper Ruminer, DDS, a dentist and the founder of 405 Dental Aesthetics in Oklahoma City.
Dr. Jen Moran, DDS, a cosmetic restorative dentist and founder of Water Tower Dental Care in Chicago, adds that citrus fruits can wear down teeth. “Citrus—especially the habit of sipping lemon water throughout the day—is a great example. While lemons are healthy, they are highly acidic. That acid can gradually soften and erode enamel,” she notes.
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Dr. Moran says that this risk primarily comes when acidic drinks (like lemon water) are sipped throughout the day. She explains that this habit keeps teeth under constant acid exposure without enough time for saliva to neutralize and repair the surface.
To her point, one study comparing the impact of drinking orange, lemon, and grapefruit juices regularly on teeth found that drinking lemon water had the biggest negative impact on teeth, leading to the most tooth erosion.
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How To Know if You’re Wearing Down Your Teeth
Maybe you do drink lemon water throughout the day or you have orange juice or grapefruit every morning with your breakfast. How can you tell if you’re wearing down your teeth? Both dentists say that there are some signs to be on the lookout for.
It can be hard to pick up on your teeth being worn down right away. “Early enamel wear can be subtle,” Dr. Moran says. She adds that common signs include increased sensitivity to cold, teeth appearing more yellow as enamel thins and edges that look smooth, flat, rounded or slightly translucent. “Some people also notice small chips or changes in how their bite feels,” she adds.
Dr. Ruminer notes that one sign that your teeth are getting worn down is the front teeth becoming flatter and the corners of the teeth becoming sharp. He explains that you might also notice “pitting,” which is when pin-size holes, dents or surface depressions form on the teeth.
Here’s what’s really bad about tooth erosion: Dr. Moran adds that enamel does not regenerate once it is lost. “Over time, erosion can lead to sensitivity, discoloration, thinning and chipping. Teeth may also change shape or appear worn,” she explains.
When advanced, Dr. Moran says that treatment is pretty intense, requiring bonding, veneers or crowns.
How To Protect Your Teeth
Certainly, no one wants to wear down their teeth. But does this mean you can’t ever enjoy citrus fruits? Both dentists say that the takeaway shouldn’t mean never eating citrus. After all, citrus fruits are healthy and practically no one eats enough fruit as it is. But you may want to steer clear of sipping on lemon water all day long.
When you do drink orange juice or eat a citrus fruit, both dentists say to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. This is because the acid from the citrus temporarily softens tooth enamel. Brushing too soon while the enamel is soft can scrub the enamel away. When you do brush your teeth, Dr. Moran says to use a fluoride toothpaste with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Dr. Ruminer recommends drinking water when you’re eating citrus fruit. This will wash away any leftover fruit acids and dilute the concentrated acid that’s hanging around in your mouth.
“You don’t need to avoid healthy foods like citrus. The key is how you consume them. A glass of lemon water with breakfast is very different from sipping it throughout the day. Giving your mouth breaks allows saliva to restore a healthy balance and protect your enamel,” Dr. Moran says.
With that in mind, you can still enjoy your favorite citrus fruits without compromising your teeth. That’s definitely something to smile about.
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Sources
Dr. Kooper Ruminer, DDS, dentist and the founder of 405 Dental Aesthetics in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Dr. Jen Moran, DDS, cosmetic restorative dentist and founder of Water Tower Dental Care in Chicago, Illinois. Bassioney, M. A., Yang, J. and Shuntaro Kuroda, S. (2008). Topographic and radiographic profile assessment of dental erosion. Part II: effect of citrus juices on human dentition. General Dentistry. 56(2):136-43.Hence then, the article about the healthy snack that s secretly wearing down your teeth was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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