Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), affects millions of people worldwide. While many are familiar with the discomfort it causes in the chest, few realize that acid reflux can also have significant effects on your oral health. If you experience frequent acid reflux, it’s essential to understand how it may be impacting your teeth and gums.

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acids flow back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation known as heartburn. This can happen after eating, especially if you consume certain foods, or it may occur more frequently in people with GERD. In addition to heartburn, acid reflux may lead to bad breath, a sour or acidic taste in the mouth, tooth sensitivity, and difficulty swallowing.

While heartburn may be the most well-known symptom, many people with acid reflux also suffer from persistent oral health issues due to the effects of stomach acid reaching the mouth.

How Does Acid Reflux Affect Your Teeth?

Just as acidic foods and beverages can wear down tooth enamel, the acid from your stomach can have the same damaging effect. When stomach acid frequently enters the mouth, it erodes the enamel that protects your teeth. This erosion can cause your teeth to appear yellow, pitted, and more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. Over time, if left untreated, this damage can be irreversible.

In addition to enamel erosion, acid reflux can also irritate your gums, leading to gum disease, a primary cause of tooth loss in adults. The acids can make your gums inflamed, red, and sore, and may even contribute to bleeding or infection if not addressed.

Protecting Your Teeth from Acid Reflux

The good news is that you can take steps to minimize the damage caused by acid reflux and protect your smile. Here are some tips to help safeguard your oral health:

1. Avoid Trigger Foods: Limit fatty, spicy, and acidic foods that can worsen acid reflux. Common culprits include citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, and caffeine.
2. Rinse Your Mouth After Eating: If you experience acid reflux, rinse your mouth with water after eating. This helps neutralize the acids in your mouth.
3. Don’t Brush Immediately After Eating: Wait at least an hour before brushing your teeth after consuming acidic foods or drinks. Brushing immediately can cause further enamel wear.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps wash away acids and keeps your mouth hydrated.
5. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Sleeping with your head elevated can help prevent stomach acids from rising into the esophagus.

How Often Should You Visit Your Dentist?

Regular dental checkups are crucial, especially if you suffer from acid reflux. At Barrett Family Dental of Tacoma, we recommend visiting your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and checkup. During your visit, we will carefully examine your teeth and gums for any signs of damage from acid reflux.

If we detect enamel erosion or other issues, we may recommend treatments such as dental bonding, crowns, or in more severe cases, root canal therapy, to help restore your smile and prevent further damage.

If you suffer from acid reflux, don’t wait to protect your oral health. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with your trusted dentist in Tacoma. Let us help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.