The Relationship between Oral Health and Digestion
Digestive disorders affect your teeth when acid travels from your stomach into your mouth. This can happen after eating a large meal or if you have an acid reflux disorder. The problem with acid in your mouth is that it can wear down the enamel on your teeth. On the other hand, saliva production is the body’s natural defense to wash away acid. In fact, saliva often can help to restore the pH balance in your mouth.
In general, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), acid reflux erodes tooth enamel surfaces.
What Are the Indications of Enamel Erosion?
Signs of enamel wearing down include:
- Tooth sensitivity or pain when drinking hot, cold or sweet beverages
- Yellow discoloration of teeth
- Changes in fillings
- Greater risk of cavities
- Abscess development
- Tooth loss
Abscess development and tooth loss typically only occur in severe cases.
What Can You Do if Digestive Disorders Affect Your Teeth?
The following are some things you can do to help protect your teeth against acid reflux:
- Chew sugar-free gum to create salvia, which helps wash away and neutralize acids in the mouth
- Use prescription or over-the-counter toothpastes for desensitizing and strengthening tooth enamel
- Three hours before bedtime, avoid smoking or eating. This can help reduce acid reflux episodes
- Work with your doctor to deal with heartburn, acid reflux or other digestive troubles and treat the underlying causes
- Schedule frequent dental visits for receive help with preventing tooth enamel erosion and get relief if you suffer from dry mouth
Do you have questions about dental care?
Call (512) 806-7740 and make an appointment today to discuss your questions and concerns. At Hutto Hippo Family Dental we don’t believe in making patients wait. We know your time is valuable and our office policy is to get you in as soon as possible.
Recent Comments