Are you a Juicing Fanatic?
Now the festive season has started, some of my patients have told me they are trying a juicing diet to detox after Christmas party excesses, or before the inevitable over-eating starts.
People are often surprised to hear the damaging effect juices can have on our teeth. A lot of juices, especially those made with fruit, are full of sugar and highly acidic. This causes a drop in pH in the mouth, which in turn can cause acid erosion which damages tooth enamel and/or decay if sustained.
Despite the possible damage, we do recognise the benefits of a good daily intake of fruits and vegetables, in particular the importance of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for good gum health.
Almost all vegetables are low acid, but some fruits are higher than others
High Erosion Risk Fruits:
Citrus
Berries
Peaches
Pears
Grapes
Pineapple
Moderate Erosion Risk Fruits:
Figs
Bananas
Asian pears
Dates
Papaya
Melons
Mangoes
Here are some tips to help reduce the damage that can be caused by juicing diets or high fruit intake:
1. Try to limit fruits to meal times, constant grazing causes more damage than a large amount all at once.
2. Wait at least 20 minutes after eating/drinking before brushing so you are not brushing the acid in to the teeth.
3. Drink juice through a straw and don't hold it for long in your mouth.
4. Dilute juice with water and drink water after each juice/fruit.
5. Use a good, de sensitising toothpaste, such as Sensodyne Repair and Protect.
6. Increase use of fluoride mouthwash such as Colgate Flourigard. GC Tooth Mousse is excellent for repairing damage when applied topically at night and left on the teeth, and also comes in some delicious fruity flavours!
