Acid and Teeth erosion

Tooth structure

Our tooth enamel is primarily made up from calcium and hydroxyapatite. Even though enamel is the hardest substance in our bodies, it still can become damaged. Acids found in pop and juice erode enamel. Acid erosion occurs mostly to people ages five to seventeen- but anyone can be affected. Acid erosion simply can’t be reversed. But, it can be prevented!

The pH levels in Drinks

The pH scale is what measures the degree of acidity. A neutral substance measures at 7. Increasing acidity is shown by decreasing numbers- while increasing the numbers represents the level of alkalinity. Tooth enamel erosion can be caused by liquids with an acidity pH level that is below 5.0 to 5.7. Carbonated drinks sometimes have other aggressive acids in them as well, like citric or phosphoric acid.

Teeth with acid erosion

We have included a chart of common drinks according to its acidity. Please note that pure water’s pH is 7.

The Effects of Acid Erosion on Teeth

The amount of time acid stays in contact with your teeth plays a major role in how much damage occurs. Prolonged exposure is far more harmful than brief contact, even if the acidic drink or food seems “healthy.”

This is especially important for children. Kids should never be given a bottle or sippy cup of juice to sip on for long periods, as acidic drinks can damage primary (baby) teeth much faster than adult teeth. While juice may contain nutritional benefits, it should be consumed in short periods—not slowly throughout the day.

Surprisingly, many fruit juices are more acidic than soft drinks. Soft drinks are equally damaging due to their combination of:

High acidity
Carbonation
Sugar

Non-diet soft drinks are particularly harmful. In one experiment, a tooth submerged in non-diet pop for 48 hours lost approximately 5% of its total mass, demonstrating just how destructive prolonged acid exposure can be.

Over time, acid erosion weakens enamel, making teeth:

More sensitive
More prone to cavities
More likely to appear yellow as enamel thins resulting in yellow teeth
Structurally weaker

How to Prevent Tooth Erosion from Acidic Drinks

Preventing acid erosion is largely about reducing contact time and neutralizing acids quickly.

Smart Prevention Tips

Drink acidic beverages in one sitting, rather than sipping over long periods
Use a straw to limit contact with teeth
Rinse with water immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks
Stimulate saliva by chewing sugar-free gum—saliva naturally neutralizes acids
Avoid brushing for at least 30 minutes after acidic exposure, as enamel is temporarily softened

When Brushing Isn’t Possible

If you don’t have access to a toothbrush:

Swish plain water around your mouth
Or use a homemade saltwater rinse (½ teaspoon of salt in warm water) for about one minute

This helps neutralize acids and wash away harmful residues until proper brushing can be done later.

When to Speak to Your Dentist

If you or your child experience:

Increased tooth sensitivity
Changes in tooth colour
Chipping or rough edges
Frequent cavities

It’s important to speak with your dentist. Early signs of acid erosion can often be managed or reversed with preventive care before permanent damage occurs.

Bronte Rd Family Dental is a local Oakville dental office . Our office offer wide range of services with focus on prevention and conservation. Call us at (905) 465-0026 for more details.