Keep That Acid Out Of Your Mouth -- Graber Orthodontics

Dr. Katie Graber answers some common teeth questions:

What foods and drinks have a high acid level, and are considered “bad” for teeth? The worst “foods” for the teeth are those with a high acid and high sugar level. These two factors permit a more effective bacterial attack on the tooth surface. Acid erodes enamel (the hard outer layer of the tooth structure) and sugar feeds the Streptococcus Mutans (a.k.a. cavity causing bacteria.) Worst offenders are the high acid/high sugar liquids in the diet. These include, but are not limited to: soda, energy drinks, Gatorade, etc. If these types of drinks are a “must have” it is better to drink them in one sitting versus sipping throughout the day. Swishing with water after a high sugar drink can help restore the Ph balance to the mouth. Another option is to chew a piece of gum that contains xylitol – a cavity fighting ingredient. In that way, the acid/sugar attack is limited.


Which foods are the best foods for promoting healthy teeth and gums? Choosing the right foods is only one aspect in keeping a healthy mouth. Regular visits with the general dentist and meticulous home care (proper toothbrushing and flossing) are equally important. Natural foods are the best foods for healthy teeth and gums. Water is the best drink to sip throughout the day. It re-hydrates the body and does not increase cavity causing bacteria. Coffee is also non-cavity causing (only “regular” coffee with no added cream or sugar) but does tend to dry the mouth. Fresh foods with little added chemical preservative and/or sugars are the best foods to eat for total body health – which includes the mouth!

Does teeth whitening affect the enamel? Teeth whitening does affect the enamel. The outer surface of the tooth is lightened with the carbamide peroxide in the whitening agent.

Can the build-up of plaque lead to faster enamel erosion? What about tartar? Dental plaque is a combination of food particles and bacteria. Retention of this food/bacteria mixture is what eventually leads to cavities. A cavity, a hole in the enamel, can begin as erosion. Acid from food or from toxins released by bacteria can begin this erosion process. Tartar is dental plaque that has become calcified. It can also contribute to an increased risk for dental decay.

Can sticky and chewy foods eat away tooth enamel? Sticky and chewy foods are not more likely to eat the enamel! The reason that patients are instructed to avoid sticky/chewy foods (such as fruit by the foot, fun fruits, etc.) is that 1)they stick in the crevices of teeth, 2)they are more difficult to remove with a toothbrush, and 3)they are not dissolved well by the saliva. Better snack candies are those that dissolve in the saliva, those that are made from nature and those that are more easily brushed after – like chocolate!

Will chewing gum affect the enamel on my teeth? Chewing gum can be bad for your teeth or great for your teeth. It depends on the variety! Dentists recommend chewing xylitol gum (approved by the ADA – which is stamped on the box) to help prevent cavities. Examples include: Spry (available online at www.sprygum.com or at Whole Foods,) Extra and Orbit gum brands.

What can I do to make sure that the enamel on my teeth stays strong? To keep your enamel strong: 1)Brush and floss regularly with ADA accepted products (stamped on the package) 2)Visit your general dentist according to their recommendation for dental cleanings and fluoride application 3)Have all recommended sealants placed on vulnerable teeth 4) Eat healthy foods and avoid sipping high acid/sugar drinks all day long 5) If chewing gum, try one with xylitol!

If you have more questions about your teeth, stop by Graber Orthodontics and ask us! We'd love to chat with you.