Beware Acidic Diets! General Dentistry in Toms River

Toms River tooth strengthening We don’t often think of a tooth as a body part that fluctuates in strength. They seem to have a steady hardness and functionality. But Rotem Dental Care in Toms River reminds you that teeth are dynamic organisms with chemical processes that occur constantly.

The protective enamel that covers a tooth’s softer interior is made of minerals. Enamel loses some of its density (demineralizes) when coming in contact with acids. Saliva can dilute and neutralize acid so the tooth can re-harden (remineralize).

But the process isn’t instantaneous. While the enamel is soft, the tooth is vulnerable to losing a microscopic outer layer of enamel. If the erosion continues, the much softer dentin is exposed. Eventually, the tooth may need to be extracted.

At Rotem Dental Care, we are noticing an increase in cases of serious acid erosion. It is apparent that the typical Toms River diet is becoming more acidic.

The list of acidic foods may surprise you. The list includes eggs, gravy, asparagus, chicken, cottage cheese, honey, fish, ham, butter, sour cream, aged cheese, and yogurt with active cultures. Generally, food with a high sugar or artificial sweetener content are highly acidic.

Now let’s talk about drinks. You probably already know that soft drinks and wine are bad for your teeth. Toms River teens that sip soda all day can have acid erosion at a time when their teeth should be at their strongest.

In addition to soda, energy drinks are very popular in New Jersey, and the effect on tooth enamel.

If you drink soda or energy drinks often, you may want to drink water or chew sugarless gum after downing a can. Stimulating saliva production can speed up the remineralization process.

If your teeth have become more sensitive in general, or in response to hot or cold foods or beverages, you may have acid erosion. This is not something to be taken lightly. Call Rotem Dental Care today to schedule an examination. Our services include cosmetic and general dentistry.

Contact Rotem Dental Care:

732-228-4028

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

355 Lakehurst Rd
Toms River, New Jersey
08755