Are Fruits Bad for Your Teeth? Posted on 3/22/2021 by Sundberg Office Fruits are an essential part of a healthy diet. They're an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. However, this doesn't change the fact that they contain sugar and acids, both compounds that can negatively affect your teeth. The way you eat fruit matters for your teeth, and some ways are worse than others for your teeth. At PDX Center for Dentistry, Samuel Seo, DMD and Dr. Seo can share how to enjoy delicious and healty fruits without harming your teeth.
How Fruit Sugars and Acids Affect Your Teeth
Sugar and acid are the main culprits behind tooth erosion. All fruits naturally contain these compounds. Sugar attracts bacteria, which wears down the protective tooth layer (enamel), exposing it to cavities and decay. The acid reacts with calcium and demineralizes the enamel layer, revealing the soft layer underneath. Tooth erosion signs include discoloration, transparency, cracking, rounded teeth, and inflammation.
How to Enjoy Fruits without Harming Your Teeth
Now that you know about the effects of sugar and acids, you're probably wondering how you can enjoy the fruits you love. There are many ways to minimize the negative impact. The best way is to choose fruits that are naturally low in acidity and sugar, and these include apples and berries. They will provide vitamins and antioxidants without damaging your teeth' enamel. You should avoid or limit extremely sweet or sour fruits like mango, lemons, grapefruit, and sour oranges. Secondly, you should rinse your mouth after eating sweet fruits. This helps remove leftover sugar on the teeth's surface and also help neutralize the acidity. Lastly, avoid canned fruits because they're full of sugar syrups that can wreak havoc on your teeth. At PDX Center for Dentistry, Samuel Seo, DMD or Dr. Seo can look for tooth erosion signs and treat them accordingly. To schedule an appointment with us, call us at (503) 546-9079 today.