Enamel, the outer layer of each tooth, is made up almost entirely of minerals. It’s the hardest substance in your body! In fact, on the hardness scale, it’s somewhere between steel and titanium! But enamel is surprisingly vulnerable to attack, especially from acids. So where do the acids come from?

One source of acid is your diet. Some foods and drinks contain more acid than others. But there’s another source. Your mouth is full of bacteria which form a sticky film over your teeth called plaque. When you eat starchy and sugary foods, you’re actually feeding these bacteria and acid is a by-product. Yes, you have a mini acid factory right in your mouth. Over time, acid wears down your enamel leading to decay and all sorts of other problems.

Small amounts of minerals (primarily calcium, phosphate and fluoride) can be deposited on your teeth through the foods you eat, but your body can’t repair serious enamel loss. Only a dentist can restore a tooth when that happens.

Here are some foods that can be beneficial to your tooth enamel:

Milk, cheese and yogurt contain Vitamin D, calcium and phosphates which are all good for reducing acid.

Green tea contains antioxidants which control the level of bacteria in your mouth, thus reducing acid production. Garlic and shiitake mushrooms are said to have similar properties.

Sunflower seeds and Brazil nuts contain high levels of phosphorous.

Beans, broccoli and avocados contain fiber which increases saliva production to help wash away acids. Sugar-free chewing gum also increases saliva.

And as always, brush, floss and see your dentist regularly!

Ready to book your next dental appointment at Discovery Smiles? Call us at 520-721-2000.