Are Pickles Bad for Your Teeth?

Pickles are a great compliment to any burger, sandwich, or even as a sweet treat after a long day. Unfortunately, your love of pickles might leave a lasting mark on your smile. Although they have the perfect combination of sweetness and crunch, they are bad for your teeth and your oral health in Green Lake. Don’t worry. Here’s how you can still enjoy your favorite snack without damaging your smile.

Why are Pickles Bad for Teeth?

A pickle is a small cucumber that’s preserved in a variety of ingredients, including vinegar or brine. They are almost all water and contain little fat or protein. Surprisingly, they also have a high concentration of vitamins; however, they are acidic and have a low pH value.

Since pickles have a significant amount of acid in them, they will erode your enamel over time. Your enamel is the hard outer layer of your tooth that protects the softer inner layers. Underneath it is the dentin, which contains millions of tiny tubes connecting to the nerve center of your tooth, called the pulp. The soft tissue is the innermost later responsible for nourishing your tooth while it’s developing.

If your enamel is weakened extensively, your tooth won’t have the defense system it needs. You will have an increased risk of cavities, tooth sensitivity, and even discoloration. In some cases, you may even have a higher risk of chips and fractures.

Will My Enamel Grow Back?

Sadly, once your enamel has been demineralized; it’s gone for good. It will not grow back.  There are several things your dentist can do to help keep it strong, like a fluoride treatment, but it’s best to be proactive to prevent enamel erosion in the first place.

Can I Still Eat Pickles?

Although pickles aren’t the ideal treat for your smile, you don’t have to avoid them if you follow a few tips to preserve your enamel. It’s best to eat pickles in moderation and maintain your oral hygiene. When you’re finished eating, you don’t want to brush your teeth right away because your enamel will be temporarily weakened.

After about 30 minutes, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive floss to clean all surfaces of your teeth. If you can’t get to your toothbrush, chew sugarless gum, or rinse your mouth with water. You can even eat a piece of cheese, which stimulates saliva production to help cleanse your teeth until you can brush them.

If you’ve developed any sensitivity or signs of weakened enamel, it’s best to see your dentist in Green Lake. They’ll create the personalized plan you need to help safeguard your smile against enamel erosion.