Fruit naturally contains a rich flavour that has many benefits to your gums and teeth. Yes, those fruits that some people prefer not to eat but would rather drink sugars through acidic drinks. However, there are many benefits to eating fruits, not to mention richness in flavour.
Fruits are high in vitamin C content as well, such as strawberries, apples and grapefruits, and vitamin C is a property that benefits your dental health as well. These fruits can also help remove dental plaque from your teeth.
However, some fruits contain acidic content that can cause damage to your enamel. Therefore, before getting stuck into your favourite fruits, it is important to be aware of the fruits that contain the most acid content.
What Are The Dangers Of Acidic Content?
Here are the dangers of regularly consuming fruits that are high in acidic content:
- Lower PH Level Cites Large Acidic Content – Drinks with a lower pH show how acidic our favourite beverages are. These acids, which have a pH range of 0 to 7, can wreak havoc on your teeth and enamel.
- Production Of Bacteria – Another risk of consuming acidic beverages regularly is the introduction of harmful bacteria. The liquid sugars are broken down by bacteria, which produces more acid, which damages teeth. When this occurs, your teeth are vulnerable to cavities and tooth decay.
- Staining Of Your Teeth – When the enamel on your teeth erodes, the yellow dentin beneath the enamel is visible. The dentin is a protective layer between the enamel and the tooth that protects your teeth from harmful properties. Your teeth develop discoloured when the dentin becomes exposed. Because the dentin and enamel have been exposed, discolouration comprises dark, tenacious stains that form on teeth because of sugar and acidic drinks consumption.
- Tooth Sensitivity From The Exposed Dentin – When the underlying dentin is exposed, it can cause painful sensitivity in the mouth. When you bite down on hot and cold meals, you’ll notice this.
- Sugar Imbalances – Your dental health difficulties will necessitate a change in your diet. This implies you won’t be able to eat or drink your favourite foods and beverages. Of course, a well-balanced diet free of sugar and acid is ideal, but if your teeth are in bad shape, you may need to forego your favourite foods and beverages in favour of a more balanced diet.
Which Fruits Contain The Most Acidic Content?
As mentioned, the amount of acid content is measured according to its PH value. Drinks that are above a PH level of 7 are considered alkaline. Anything below seven is considered acidic.
So, which acidic drinks contain the most acidic content?
| ACIDIC FRUIT DRINK | PH VALUE |
| Lemon Juice | 2.60 (max) |
| Lime Juice | 2.80 (max) |
| Cranberry Juice | 2.50 (max) |
| Grapes | 3.80 (max) |
| Pomegranates | 3.20 (max) |
| Grapefruits | 3.75 (max) |
| Blueberries | 3.33 (max) |
| Pineapple | 4.00 (max) |
| Peaches | 4.05 (max) |
| Mangoes | 4.80 (max) |
| Oranges | 4.34 (max) |
These figures are supported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
What Happens To My Enamel?
Consuming acidic fruits regularly can cause your enamel to break down over time. This exposes the enamel to sensitivity and eventually tooth decay. Tooth decay can be irreversible beyond repair, meaning that the affected tooth would require restorative treatment such as a root canal or a crown or tooth extraction if the tooth is no longer repairable.
You want to make sure that your mouth environment is in an alkaline state. To prevent enamel erosion, reduce acidic content in your diet and replace it with water and healthy fruits.
The dentist will always recommend striking a balance in your diet. If you’re seeking further support with your dietary choices, consult your local dentist for a check-up appointment and start your journey towards a healthier smile!
Dr. Ramesh is a dedicated dentist in St Marys passionate about providing personalized, high-quality care. With years of experience and a commitment to continuous learning, he specializes in a range of dental treatments, ensuring patients achieve optimal oral health and confident smiles.
