News 08/05/2017

Stay hydrated this summer

Although the weather may not quite be so sure, summer is definitely on it way. Hopefully we will soon be enjoying some long hot summer days. During the summer, we tend to shy away from teas and coffees and move towards cold drinks to quench our thirst. Did you know however that certain soft drinks can have a detrimental effect on your oral health?

Acid erosion

Acid erosion is caused when the acids in the food and drink we consume attacks the tooth enamel. Enamel is the hard, protective coating of the tooth, which protects the more sensitive dentine below. If the enamel is worn away, the dentine can be exposed and this can lead to sensitivity. Once the enamel has been worn away there is no way of regenerating it, it is gone for good!

Acidity is measured by a pH vale and anything with a pH lower than 5.5 is considered acidic and can therefore harm your teeth. Some examples include:

  • Fizzy drinks, sodas, pops and carbonated drinks
  • Fruit and fruit juices
  • Alcopops
  • Wine
  • Sports drinks

So how do you ensure that you stay hydrated this summer without affecting your oral health? Here at Benfleet Dental Centre we have come up with some tips to help ensure you are summer ready.

1. Use a straw

We are not saying you need to give up your favourite fizzy drinks, but why not consider drinking them through a straw. This ensures that less of the liquid comes into contact with your teeth. It is also better to drink the can or bottle in one go rather than sipping it over a prolonged period of time

2. Limit acidic foods and drinks to mealtimes

Reduce the number of acid attacks your teeth have to contend with by llimiting acidic food and drinks to meal times. It takes around an hour for the pH level in your mouth to return to its normal level and if you are constantly grazing on acidic foods or sipping acidic drinks your mouth never gets a chance to recover.

3. Wait for at least one hour after eating before brushing your teeth

Every time you eat or drink something acidic, the enamel on your teeth becomes softer for a short period and loses some of its mineral content. By waiting an hour, you give the enamel a chance to reharden, reducing the risk of brushing the enamel away. Brush your teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day using a fluoride toothpaste.

4. Visit the dentist for regular appointments

By attending for regular dental appointments, you can ensure that any problems are identified early, reducing the risk of problems in the future.

Looking for further help and advice to keep your teeth looking their best? Call Benfleet Dental Centre today on 01702 557766 and book a consultation.

Map of Benfleet Dental Centre

Visit the practice

Benfleet Dental Centre

8 Benfleet Road, Benfleet. SS7 1QB

Opening times

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 18:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 14:00*
*By appointment only