You always hear about "PH-balanced" products, but rarely do you hear about "PH balancing your mouth". The human mouth consumes acids, alkalines, and bases in everyday foods and drinks.
Dr. Michael Furumoto, a dentist and owner of Furumoto Dentistry, is an expert on the PH balance of mouth. He knows why patients should seek to do this, and the health benefits to teeth. If you would like to learn more about the balancing act of PH levels in your mouth, schedule an appointment today.
Why PH Is Important in Your Mouth
For obvious reasons, acidic foods and drinks wear away the enamel on your teeth. Over time, you develop cavities that require filling. Eventually, a really high amount of acid from food in your mouth can destroy your teeth.
However, having a highly alkaline mouth can't prevent the damage caused by acidic foods. It's a balancing act because consuming a high alkaline diet can discolor your teeth. You need just enough alkaline foods to combat the amount of acidic foods you consume.
Having a Base PH in Your Mouth
A mouth that is neither alkaline nor acid has a base PH. It is very rare to have a base PH in the mouth because of saliva, food, and drink. It is also extremely difficult to achieve a base-PH mouth and keep it that way.
Healthy Mouth Leads to Healthy Teeth
If you can get and maintain a slightly alkaline mouth, you will experience little to no damage to your teeth. Brushing and eating a high-alkaline diet reduces the overall sugars and acids that can damage teeth. An alkaline diet includes:
- Fresh fruit and veggies
- Nuts and seeds
- Lentils and beans
- Fats and Oils
The greener and richer in dark color the better to reverse acidic damage to your teeth. Citrus, while necessary for gum health, can cause damage to the teeth. Eat oranges, grapefruit, lemons, limes, etc., in lesser quantities than fibrous fruits. Higher fiber foods are also better for your teeth and the PH level in your mouth.
The Impact of PH on Cosmetic Dentistry
Additionally, the PH in your mouth can positively or negatively affect your cosmetic dentistry procedures. An acidic PH can ruin teeth whitening and make it difficult for implants to heal properly. An alkaline mouth is a good defense against bacteria.
Make an appointment with a cosmetic dentist in Diamond Bar now. See Dr. Michael Furumoto to discover what the PH in your mouth is and how you can change it.