Sensitive teeth and acidity are interrelated. Chronic acidity, gastritis and acid reflux cause acid in mouth resulting in tooth erosion. Tooth erosion basically refers to wearing off of enamel layer by acid attack. This results in severe sensitivity of teeth.
How acidity cause teeth sensitivity
Severe acid re flux (GERD) cause gastric acid that is acid from stomach to come up into the mouth. This acid in turn wears off the enamel layer. Although this process of demineralization takes a long time to happen. But chronic acidity not treated on time may lead to severe teeth sensitivity.
Tips to Prevent Sensitive Teeth by Acidity
- Treat acid reflux
Chronic cases of acid reflux must be treated well to prevent other general as well as dental complications.
- Avoid Citrus fruits and drinks
Citrus fruits and drinks are rich in acid that accelerate the process of enamel erosion. You can have these fruits along with other food items so that the acid directly does not attack tooth surface. This further will prevent sensitive teeth and acidity.
- Regular tooth-brushing
Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoridated toothpastes. Regular brushing will prevent acid exposure time of teeth and fluorides in toothpaste will prevent demineralization and erosion of teeth.
- Stay Hydrated
Staying well hydrated with loss of water and unsweetened fluids is very god for general as well as dental health also. Moreover water neutralizes acid in mouth and prevents tooth erosion. Regular and adequate water intake improves saliva production resulting in self cleansing of teeth.
- Regular mouth rinsing
Regular mouth rinsing with water after every meal and after having snacks also is a very good habit to prevent teeth sensitivity and teeth decay.
Develop habit of mouth rinsing with water in children to prevent dental caries and cavities in children.
- Include calcium rich food in diet
Add calcium rich food like milk, yogurt, soy, kale etc. In regular diet of adults and children. Calcium neutralizes acid and protects tooth enamel from erosion and decay.
- Avoid fizzy and Aerated Drinks and beverages
Aerated drinks act as catalyst for tooth erosion especially in people with acid reflux. Therefore avoid fizzy and aerated drinks for good dental health and avoid sensitive teeth and acidity.
- Regular Dental Check ups
Always go for regular dental check ups. Your dentist may help to prevent dental problems in initial stages only if you visit on time.
