What is Acid Reflux?
Heartburn, or acid indigestion, is a common symptom of chronic acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Over 10 percent of Americans experience the discomfort of heartburn every day.
Acid reflux takes place when muscles of the esophagus relax and allow stomach acids to flow upwards. These acids can cause irritation and inflammation, and negatively impact your oral health. Acid reflux can progress further and develop into GERD.
What is GERD?
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the ring of muscle between the esophagus and stomach. GERD causes corrosion of the esophageal lining and creates an uncomfortable burning sensation, associated with heartburn.
Signs and Symptoms of Acid Reflux/GERD
- Heartburn
- Difficulty swallowing
- Regurgitation
- Burning sensation in mouth
- Sore throat
- Nausea, vomiting, belching
- Chronic coughing
- Bad breath
- Erosion of tooth enamel
- Tooth sensitivity
- Chipping, discoloration of teeth
- Cavities
- Dry mouth
- Red, swollen gums
- Bleeding gums
How Does GERD Affect Your Oral Health?
GERD can erode tooth enamel, consequently leading to further damage. Research shows tooth enamel begins to erode at a pH, or acid level, of 5.5. Hence, your stomach acid with the pH of 2.0, can easily damage tooth enamel and cause increased tooth sensitivity, decay, discoloration, and chipping.
Treatments and Lifestyle Modifications
Though GERD is a chronic condition, its symptoms can be treated using medications and lifestyle modifications. For example, some lifestyle changes that decrease the symptoms of GERD are:
- Avoiding trigger foods and beverages This includes, but is not limited to: chocolate, spicy/greasy foods, tomato-based foods, alcohol, and coffee, citrus fruits, and juices.
- Quit smoking.
- Refraining from eating several hours before bed, or lying down two to three hours after eating.
- Losing weight, if you are overweight or obese.
- Avoiding tight clothing.
Protect Your Teeth Against Acid Reflux
Practicing good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent acid reflux or GERD from damaging your teeth and causing decay. In addition to brushing twice a day, you can take the following steps to ensure GERD doesn’t impact your oral health…
- Visit your dentist regularly for tooth enamel evaluation.
- Rinse your mouth with water following acid reflux episodes.
- Do not brush your teeth for 60 minutes after consuming acidic foods or drinks.
- Drink the proper amount of water throughout the day. It is recommended for men to consume 13 cups of water per day and women to consume 9 cups per day.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste, we recommend CLINPRO, receive fluoride treatments to strengthen your teeth, and use a daily prescription strength fluoride product. Our office offers OMNI GEL.
- Avoid over-the-counter antacids that have a high sugar content, especially at night.
Speak to you dental provider, and physician if you believe you could be at risk of acid reflux or GERD. GERD can be incredibly damaging to your oral health, however lifestyle modifications and proper dental treatment can help ensure your teeth remain safe and healthy.
Yours for better health,
Dr. Christine R. Wenrick
