Hot, Hot, Hot!

By Sherry Kazerooni, DDS, LVIF

Sherry Kazerooni, DDS

. http://www.smiletolove.com/

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Hot, Hot, Hot!

Heat and humidity drain the fluids from our bodies even during light exercise. Because of the heat, we tend to drink more than usual. Most people tend to choose carbonated drinks or “rehydrating” products to quench their thirst. These choices are causing a major increase in decay for children, adolescents, and adults.

Sipping on any kind of drink that contains carbonation exposes the teeth to acid every time you sip a drink during the day. This is devastating to your teeth.

While many of us do not really like water, it is the best choice for summer hydration between meals. Drink the carbonated beverages with your meals. Rinse your mouth and drink only water in between meals because filling cavities is expensive. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Please consider the following points to help benefit your overall dental health. You will be surprised at the number of foods that contribute to acid formation in your mouth.

Relax, have fun, and enjoy your summer. And, my advice is to only drink water between meals.

Acid and Your Teeth

Acids found in food and liquids can have a harmful affect on your teeth. Each tooth has a hard protective layer called the enamel. When acids come in contact with the enamel, the acids can make it soft. When this happens repeatedly, your enamel can wear away and can never be restored naturally.

The chance of getting cavities increases for those whose teeth are regularly exposed to food with high acid contents. It is impossible to make a complete list, as acidic foods are found everywhere, but following are some of the more common acidic food and beverages beer, beef, soft drinks, coffee, fish, lamb, pasta, white flour, pork and white bread. Even grazing on fruits and vegetables slowly throughout the day can expose your teeth to acid damage.

Bacteria in your mouth, which feed on sugars, can also create acid. The best way to avoid acid damage is to avoid snacking continuously throughout the day.