Tooth enamel is the shiny, white, outer layer of teeth. The Mayo Clinic reports that tooth enamel is even harder than bone. However, tooth enamel is still susceptible to damage from acids in foods and beverages. Some people experience enamel damage as pitting or discoloration. Others develop sensitive teeth as a result of enamel damage because enamel provides a protective barrier between mouth contents and nerve endings. Still others develop cavities, as acids break through enamel and decay the interior of the tooth. Limiting certain foods and beverages represents a first-line strategy for protecting enamel.
Fruit Juice and Citrus
FDA data show that fruits are among the most acidic of all foods. The most acidic fruits include lemon, lime, grapefruit, orange, pineapple, cranberry and pomegranate. While other fruits such as peaches, pears and grapes contain less acid, that does not mean that they can't cause damage. However, fruits play an important role in a healthy diet, so eliminating them altogether isn't a good idea. The Mayo Clinic recommends eliminating only citrus fruits but all fruit juices. Juices -- even juices from less acidic fruits -- cause more damage than whole fruit because they bathe the enamel in acids, while whole fruits feature skins and membranes that offer protection from acidic contents. It also helps to follow fruits with alkaline or pH-neutral foods such as cheese, milk, bread or meat.
Tart Candies
Tart candies obtain their tartness from acids, often natural or synthetic versions of acids derived from fruit. Common examples include malic acid from apples and citric acid from citrus fruits. Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, may be used as a preservative. As with fruit, these acids dissolve away enamel. However, tart candies are much worse than fruits. Tart candies that are sucked result in prolonged contact between acids and enamels. Sticky candies are no better because they leave behind sugar particles that mouth bacteria ferment into even more acid. Tart candies confer no nutritional benefits other than calories, so the Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding them altogether.
Foods with Vinegar
Vinegar, also known as acetic acid, is a common food culprit of enamel damage. It's often used as a pickling agent, so any food that uses the word "pickle" should be avoided. However, vinegar also features prominently in condiments like salad dressings and relish. For people who can't give up vinegar-containing foods, it helps to follow with alkaline and pH-neutral foods. Alternatively, follow with one of the commercially available neutralizing dental rinses, or swishing with a homemade solution of baking soda and water also helps. One thing not to do for at least one hour after consuming vinegar or other acidic foods is brush your teeth. The Academy of General Dentistry says acids soften teeth, so brushing actually compounds damage. Waiting about an hour allows teeth to recover.
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