FACT: LEMONADE IS MORE ACIDIC THAN COCACOLA.

Our teeth can be worn down by acidic drinks. This kind of tooth wear is called dental erosion. These acids can come from within the body (intrinsic) and from outside the body (extrinsic). From inside the body, acids may come from excessive vomiting or acid reflux common in people with heart burn. From outside the body, acids mainly come from our diet in the form of soft drinks i.e. carbonated sodas (coca cola is top of the list here) and energy drinks, lemonade, orange juice, etc.

So how can you control this kind of tooth wear?

• Avoid drinking acidic beverages i.e. swishing or holding the liquid in the mouth.
• Use a straw when drinking may be of help. Position the straw to aim at the back of the mouth so that the acids don’t bathe the teeth. NB: Avoid aiming the straw towards the front of the teeth.
• Take copious amounts of water or better, milk while eating. Milk has high levels of calcium that neutralize the acids and remineralize the tooth.
• Rinse the mouth following meals, vomiting and after consuming acidic drinks.
• Chew sugar free gum often to stimulate saliva production. Saliva helps to neutralize acids in the mouth.
• Avoid brushing teeth immediately after eating or drinking acidic beverages. Wait at least 1 hour after eating, drinking or vomiting.
• Always brush teeth using a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

DR. NAKYONYI MARIA GORRETTI BDS(MUK)

PROJECTS SECRETARY UGANDA DENTAL ASSOCIATION