Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm | Sat 8am-1pm

Image-of-poor-oral-health

Does Lemon Water Damage Teeth?

There are many health benefits with lemon. Lemon can be used as an ingredient for a meal or as a healthy drink in the morning in warm water. Some of the benefits that have been touted are a boost in the immune system, aids digestion and helps with weight loss.

Also, many drink hot water with lemon as part of their morning regimen to enjoy the cleansing and detoxing properties.

Even with good sources of vitamin C, have you considered the impact lemon can have on your teeth? It is well known that citrus properties are damaging for teeth and is also one of the foods to avoid for children. Lemon also falls into the same bracket. This naturally can raise questions about daily consumption of lemon and how to protect teeth from the acidic properties citrus fruits contain.

Unfortunately, lemon is actually damaging to teeth. When acidic properties attack the tooth enamel, the underlying dentin becomes exposed. This means teeth become yellow in colour and cause sensitivity. When your enamel erodes, it becomes irreversible. This means you’ll be left with yellow teeth. This also reduces confidence in your smile.

Patient-holding-toothbrush

Oral Health Steps

If you consume citrus fruits as part of your diet, ensure you introduce the following steps to preserve your oral health.

  • Brush Teeth – Brush your teeth to remove any acidic properties formed in the mouth. Do this at least 30 minutes after consuming lemon. This can take the pressure off your tooth enamel.
  • But Do Not Brush Directly After! – It is important that you do not brush directly after drinking lemon. The acid will rest on teeth immediately after consuming it and if you attempt to clean your teeth, the acid particles will spread all over your teeth.
  • Reduce Sugar Intake – Reducing your sugar intake is essential if you consume lemon. Consuming both will damage your teeth almost instantly.
  • Consume With Water – Ensure that you reduce the strength of lemon with water in a glass. Ideally, the drink should be diluted with a full glass of water in order to dilute the citric acid as much as possible.
  • Use A Straw – Avoid direct contact with the teeth to reduce acids touching your teeth. This will send the juice back at the back of the mouth away from the teeth.

Read here to understand the link between acidic foods and dental erosion.

Lady-Smiling-Positive-Oral-Health

Final Thoughts…

Drinking liquids with acidic ingredients is also not a good idea if you already have sensitive teeth. Lemon and other citrus fruits contain Vitamin C, it is a great way to start the day. Although, it is essential that it is consumed in moderation because the acid can be rough on the tooth enamel. Simply make the above adjustments and consume in moderation to reduce the worry of damage to your teeth.

Are you seeking recommendations for a healthy diet to preserve the health of your teeth? Alternatively, check yourself in for an appointment with our knowledgeable Sutherland dentists. Contact us now to book!

 

Share:

Comments are closed.

Call Now