Tooth enamel is the outer layer of a tooth and is hard, shiny and white. While it is the hardest substance in the body, even stronger than bone, it is still fragile. Enamel is just a thin layer of minerals that cover the tissue inside the tooth, therefore, it needs proper care.
When enamel, that first layer of defense is worn away from a tooth, it exposes the underlying dentin that is yellowish in color. This is called enamel erosion. This erosion can cause tooth sensitivity, pain, discoloration, indentations in teeth and fractured teeth.
There are many causes of erosion in teeth, but the main culprits of erosion are acidic foods, drinks and bodily fluids – saliva. As teeth enamel erodes it becomes thinner which allows the yellower dentin that lies below the enamel to be more visible through the enamel.
You can stop further damage if it hasn´t already broken through to the layer of dentin by eliminating the foods that caused the erosion in the first place. Even though tooth enamel is very strong, as it doesn´t have any living cells, it is unable to repair itself once it is damaged so you may need tooth bonding or for more severe erosion, a crown or a veneer.
There are many causes of tooth erosion, but as fruit is consumed in such high amounts on a daily basis, below are the 13 most acidic fruits.
- Lemon Juice
- Limes
- Blue Plums
- Grapes
- Pomegranates
- Grapefruits
- Blueberries
- Pineapples
- Apples
- Peaches
- Apricots
- Oranges
- Tomatoes
Prevent Enamel Erosion
- Eat cheese after eating fruit as it raises the pH levels in your mouth and increases saliva production.
- Avoid sucking on lemons or any highly acidic fruit.
- Use a straw when drinking fruit juices as it keeps the juice from coming in contact with your teeth.
- Rinse your mouth with water after eating fruit to dilute the acids and wait for 30 minutes to brush to give the dentin time to resettle.
- Brush with fluoride toothpaste.
Visit your dentist regularly to discuss ways to maintain a healthy smile. Practice good oral hygiene.
