How Zinc and Citric Acid Affect Your Teeth?

Let’s take a look at how zinc and citric acid affect your teeth.

How does Zinc affect Your Teeth?

People who consume zinc in sufficient amounts naturally have certain amount of zinc in their teeth, saliva and even in the plaque. Research has shown that the accumulations of zinc that develop before the teeth experience eruption can be associated with tooth maturation following eruption. In mouthwash as well as toothpaste, zinc plays an important role in inhibiting bacterial growth; which in turn, causes reductions in the buildup of plaque as well as bad breath.

Is Zinc Related to Enamel Loss?

The use of fluoride based toothpaste and mouthwash helps in hardening the affected enamel through remineralization. But, excessive intake of zinc tends to decrease the effectiveness of this process by making the enamel absorb new mineral content in fewer amounts. The effects of zinc on enamel don’t pose any cavity risks to your teeth though.

What about Citric Acid?

The citric acid found in fruits as well as carbonated soft drinks contribute toward the dissolving of calcium salts that constitute the surface of your teeth. As the tooth surface starts decalcifying, plaque begins to form while eroding tooth enamel. As a result, your teeth aren’t only brittle but they also become sensitive to pain.

How to prevent the loss?

Dentists at Brighton Implant Clinic suggest that if carbonated beverages are consumed, they should be taken at mealtime as eating promotes saliva production, which will be helpful in washing off the acid in your mouth. The teeth should be brushed after meals while swishing water around the mouth for encouraging saliva production.