Acid Reflux Disease may Soften Teeth that Develop Carries
Author :
Prahallad Panda
Blog :Clinician On Net
Date: 3/10/2012 1:40:00 PM
There can be several factors to cause dental carries, but basic fact is the increase of acidity in the mouth. The bacteria in mouth may ferment the carbohydrates that remains sticking to teeth after taking food.
Acid from stomach may come up to mouth through oesophagus in gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) to cause the same. There has been some study in the recent past about the effect of taking fruits like apple and soft drinks on teeth. It was seen that those may damage teeth due to the acidity.
Stomach acid is hydrochloric acid that is strong enough having Ph ranging from 1 to 4, when comes to mouth increases the acidity and may soften the enamel, the outer part of teeth.
Brushing teeth immediately after acid reflux of taking acidic fruits may take out the enamel more efficiently, exposing the inner part of teeth.
Primarily, the treatment of GERD is important that can prevent the dental carries. Still, there are some tips;
- Not to brush immediately after an acid reflux episode,
- A fluoride rinse after acid reflux may help,
- A special toothpaste can be prescribed by the doctor
- Taking baking soda or antacids after acid reflux episodes to protect teeth.
- Xylitol chewing gum that reduces acid in the mouth, is another good idea.
Protection of teeth is protection of health of a person as bad dental hygiene is linked to bad gut health and heart health.