Is it hard to go through your day without a couple of sodas or glasses of orange juice? If so, you need to be concerned about how these acidic beverages are affecting your mouth.
Consuming a lot of acid can lead to acid erosion of the enamel, and when this erosion occurs at the gum line, your entire mouth may be at risk of damage.
Signs that You’re Consuming Too Much Acid
Acid comes in a variety of forms – carbonated drinks, wine, juices, citrus fruits, and sugar, to name a few. When you consume too many acidic foods, you could begin to start noticing signs of erosion. Some of the earliest signs include:
- Discoloration. During the early phases of erosion, your teeth will yellow. This occurs when the enamel layer thins out, exposing the underlying dentin.
- Sensitivity. Once that enamel starts to wear away, you could feel pain when you eat hot or cold items. Sensitivity will increase as more enamel wears away, and excess acid can also leave the gums feeling inflamed and sore.
Later signs may include pain, cracks, and decay.
How the Gums Are Affected
As acid erosion wears away at your teeth, decay is often the result. This leads to problems with the gums, including gingivitis and possibly more advanced forms of gum disease. Symptoms of gum disease may include:
- Swollen or red gums.
- Gums that are tender and bleed easily.
- Painful or difficulty chewing.
- Bad breath that won’t go away.
- Receding gums and teeth that appear to elongate.
- Loose teeth and teeth that fall out.
Fortunately, there are ways to keep your mouth safe. Be sure to brush twice daily, floss regularly, and rinse your mouth out with water after you consume acidic foods or drinks. Also, visit your dentist regularly for your periodic cleanings. We’ll help to minimize the damage of acid, so call us today.
