Did you know that one of the biggest enemies to your teeth is acid? “Acid” is a word that stirs up many images, but the truth is that acid is found in many things that you eat and drink every day.  When acid starts to go to work on our teeth, it attacks the enamel and opens the door for tooth decay. In a short amount of time, you could find yourself in need of a filling, or even a root canal.  You may have a problem with acid erosion if your teeth are sensitive to heat, cold or sweet foods and drinks. Your teeth may have cracks or rounded edges. They may be discolored, or they could be transparent around the edges. Your dentist can treat help with desensitizing toothpaste, or a fluoride treatment, but it is a good idea to limit the acid that comes in contact with your teeth. Citrus fruits are healthy, and let’s face it, they taste great! But they also contain acid that can harm your teeth. Make citrus fruits a part of a meal, and be sure to enjoy with plenty of water.  Soft drinks, energy drinks and even sports drinks can contain acids that will damage your teeth, and can also contain the sugars that will work with the plaque on your teeth to create acid. If you are dealing with morning sickness or have acid reflux, the acid from your stomach can harm your teeth. If this is a problem for you, rinse your mouth with a solution of water and salt or baking soda, and brush your teeth thirty minutes later.Of course, basic oral hygiene can go a long way to dealing with the problem of acid. You should brush your teeth a minimum of twice a day, for two minutes at a time, and floss at least once a day. Don’t forget to see your dentist for your regular cleanings and exams. If you live in the Franklin, Wisconsin, area and would like to schedule an appointment with our dentist, Dr. Susan Chmiel at Drs. Susan Chmiel & Rachel Bohn call 414-525-0300 today and let’s get you started on the road to a healthy mouth!