Gastro-esophageal reflux disease, or GERD, also called acid reflux, is a common problem. Many people have symptoms of acid reflux regularly, and some have symptoms each day. These symptoms include a central pain in the chest that is sometimes called heartburn but has nothing to do with heart health. Instead, it’s due to acid travelling from the stomach up through the esophagus, irritating these soft tissues, and causing a burning sensation. The acid can also make it as far as the mouth.
It is due to the valves separating the esophagus from the stomach malfunctioning. Normally, it only operates to allow food to pass from the esophagus into the stomach, preventing acid from moving backwards. If the valve isn’t working properly, acid reflux occurs, where the acid begins to wash backwards into the esophagus and eventually into the mouth. Unfortunately, this acid has a very low pH level because strong acids are needed to help break down food and aid digestion. The stomach lining is designed to cope with strong acids, but your esophagus and mouth are not. When strong stomach acids enter the mouth, it can negatively affect oral health. A healthy mouth usually has a neutral pH level, which helps maintain strong teeth and gums.
How Does Stomach Acid Affect Dental Health?
Repeated exposure to strong stomach acid can damage tooth enamel. Even though tooth enamel is very strong, it can eventually become eroded, and as it becomes thinner, teeth become more susceptible to decay and are more fragile. They can begin to crack more easily and, without the protection of tooth enamel, are more likely to feel sensitive to hot and cold and sweet-and-sour foods and beverages.
If you see your GP for acid reflux, they may prescribe medication, and you can buy various medicines over the counter. While these can be effective for alleviating the symptoms of acid reflux, they can also cause dry mouth in Newcastle. A dry mouth is a condition where you cannot produce enough saliva. You need plenty of saliva to maintain a more neutral pH as it is alkaline and helps wash away harmful bacteria and loose food particles. If you have a dry mouth, your risk of cavities is higher, especially if you have acid reflux.
Acid reflux can also irritate the soft tissues in your esophagus and mouth. People with acid reflux are more likely to experience a burning sensation inside their mouth or have ulcers or mouth sores in Clarington.
How to Protect Dental Health against Acid Reflux
If you suffer from acid reflux, ensure you have a great oral hygiene routine. After having an episode of acid reflux, rinse your mouth with water and wait at least half an hour before brushing your teeth so the acidity levels in your mouth can normalize. This helps protect your tooth enamel. Avoid using abrasive toothpaste and instead use good quality fluoride toothpaste and spit but don’t rinse afterwards so a thin layer of fluoride will remain coating your teeth, offering a bit more protection.
Try to avoid very acidic drinks and instead rehydrate with water. After eating or between meals, chew sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva production, as the more saliva you can produce, the better. If you have a dry mouth, consider using an artificial saliva substitute, and we can offer advice on which brand to purchase.
Ensure you visit West Bowmanville Family Dental for regular dental checkups and hygiene appointments in Courtice, and we can also offer useful advice on how to maintain good dental health more easily with acid reflux.
