SENSITIVITY-RELIEF

Acidic Foods and Teeth Sensitivity

You may have put some thought into the impact that high acidic foods may have on your acid reflux or other gastrointestinal health concerns, but did you ever think about the effect that high-acidic foods can have on your teeth? High-acidic foods are a known cause of sensitive teeth. Research shows that acidic and alkaline foods can have an impact on the health of our teeth’s enamel and gum line. In fact, one-third of 700 dentists surveyed by the Academy of General Dentistry say acidic foods and beverages are the most common contributors to tooth sensitivity, followed by toothbrushing technique.

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High-Acidic/Alkaline Foods and Teeth Sensitivity

Drinking and eating many acidic foods such as sport drinks, orange juice, tomatoes, fruit and yogurt can cause painful sensitivity in your teeth. Balancing acidic and alkaline foods in equal amounts can help neutralize the acidity of these foods and help keep your teeth in better health. For example, you can use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, like Crest Gum and Sensitivity Toothpaste. These specialized toothpaste formulas may include an ingredient called stannous fluoride, which is designed to protect teeth against painful sensitivity. You can ask your doctor, consult with a dietician, or do a bit of homework on your own. It’s easy to find research on acidic foods, alkaline foods and the pH levels of food in literature or on the internet. You can also switch to a softer toothbrush and use an extra-soft and gentle floss to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Acidic Foods that Can Cause Sensitivity

Eating too many high acidic foods can damage the tooth enamel and weaken your gum line, which expose the inner layer of your teeth. When the inner layer of your tooth is exposed, the nerve center is more exposed, which can lead to painful tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is a common problem that results from nerve irritation in your teeth. Symptoms of sensitive teeth can be sharp pains, particularly when you eat or drink something very hot or cold. If you’ve ever wondered what triggers tooth sensitivity, high-acidic foods are one notable cause.

How can you better recognize and understand acidic foods and learn how to keep your body’s pH levels neutral? Here is a list of acidic foods and their general level of acidity.

Moderately Acidic Foods

Meat
Beans
Most Grains
Corn
Fish
Fowl
Coffee
Plums, prunes and cranberries

Highly-Acidic Foods

Sport Drinks
Orange Juice
Tomatoes
Yogurt/Sour Cream
Wine
Sodas (e.g. cola beverages)
Most fermented foods and aged cheeses
Fruits
Pickled Products

While acidic and alkaline foods each offer different qualities, both types of foods are good for you in moderation. Since high-acidic foods can trigger tooth sensitivity, your first instinct may be to stop eating the high-acidic foods you enjoy. If you prefer a diet high in acidic foods, but are experiencing significant tooth sensitivity, there are many steps you can take to reduce your tooth discomfort.

How to Enjoy Acidic Foods Without Sensitivity

According to The Academy of General Dentistry, the simplest way to alleviate sensitive teeth from acidic foods is to use a desensitizing toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Crest offers a full regimen of products designed to help reduce tooth sensitivity that can come from eating acidic foods. The Crest Pro-Health Sensitive Shield Regimen includes the following products which may help you to continue indulging in your favorite acidic foods.

Crest Gum and Sensitivity Toothpaste:This toothpaste treats sensitivity at the source—your gum line. Its unique formula helps protect teeth and gums from painful sensitivity so you can enjoy the foods you love in comfort.
Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Comfort Plus Mint Floss: This extra-soft floss is designed to make flossing more comfortable for sensitive gums.
Oral-B Sensi-Soft Manual Toothbrush: Uniquely-designed, this toothbrush is gentle on gums and features extra-soft Criss-Cross bristles.

Those who experience serious sensitivity from an imbalance of acidic and alkaline foods can take comfort in knowing there are numerous ways to prevent and treat sensitivity. You can have the best of both worlds, enjoying your favorite high-acidic foods like wine, sour cream and eggs and help prevent tooth sensitivity if you use the right oral care products.