Acid Reflux and Your Teeth

Your digestive health can affect your teeth. A frequent upset stomach can cause a gradual wearing away of the protective enamel on your teeth. This can affect appearance as well as open the door for bacteria to enter and cause cavities and other problems. Usually, your saliva rebalances the acid levels in your mouth that travel up your throat after a meal. But for people who have acid reflux, the acids continue traveling into the mouth throughout the day, making them less likely to be neutralized by the saliva. This process is especially damaging to the teeth at night because you are swallowing less and your mouth is producing less saliva.  If you have acid reflux, be sure to tell your dentist so he or she can recommend ways to prevent tooth enamel erosion and suggest ways to get relief.