Beware of the Sour Candies!

Sure, we are all aware that too much sugary candy is not good for your teeth, but recent studies have brought another dangerous candy ingredient into focus, ACID. In recent years, candies marketed to children have increasingly been of a “fruity” or “sour” variety. Fruity and especially sour candies contain high levels of acid and have a very low pH level. Some common treats even have pH levels nearly as harmful to the teeth as battery acid! Be cautious of the high fruit juice content promoted on so many sour candy packages. Some are so acidic they can actually burn gums and cheeks. In fact, many of these candy packages contain a written warning about the potential irritation that can accompany frequent ingestion. This acid also attacks the teeth, weakening and wearing away tooth enamel. Without the protective tooth enamel, teeth are prone to decay. Frequent and or prolonged exposure to acid has been shown to cause irreversible loss of dental hard tissue. Surprisingly, tooth brushing immediately before or after exposure to acidic foods can actually increase the risk of enamel erosion. Unlike cavities, acid erosion is not frequently seen in its early stages. Also, it can be more costly to treat and unfortunately often affects nearly every tooth in the mouth. Sensitivity and discoloration are among early warning signs that can lead to more severe stages with continued acid attacks. Teeth surfaces and edges may also appear transparent, rounded, cracked or rough. Children are especially susceptible the harmful effects of acid because not only is enamel thinner on primary teeth than on permanent, but young, immature enamel tends to more porous. The damage can be very severe and even lead to permanent tooth loss! Protect your teeth from erosion by preventing acid attacks. Eliminating or decreasing consumption of sour candies is the first step against potential permanent damage to your teeth. Do not suck or chew on sour candies for long periods of time since the ongoing sucking prolongs the acid attacks on your teeth. After eating sour candy, swish your mouth with water, drink milk or eat a piece of cheese to neutralize the acids. Chew sugar-free gum to produce saliva which protects tooth enamel. After eating sour candy or any other acidic food or drinks, wait one hour before brushing your teeth. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush to protect your teeth. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have about acid attacks as well as offer dietary suggestions and oral hygiene instructions.

Dr. Wilson is now Board Certified!

Congratulations to Dr. Wilson on becoming a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry!

TOP DENTISTS

Dr. Lisa Fox and Dr. James Norwood were named Top Dentists by their peers in 2008 and again in 2009! The popular Denver magazine 5280 published the list of Top Dentists June, 2009. Learn more...

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