Biting into a crisp, tangy apple is one of those quintessential fall activities. Most of us feel great about choosing an apple as a supposedly healthy snack for our children or ourselves. After all, isn’t that apple keeping the doctor away? Well, the nutrients in apples are certainly good for our bodies, but apples have some qualities that are not ideal in terms of dental health: sugar and acid. Your Houston dentist, Dr. Deborah Gennero, explains why the timing of eating apples can save you from permanently damaging your teeth.
The Modern Apple is Just Too Sweet
Technology has an important place in our society. Unfortunately, we sometimes use our knowledge in odd ways. Take the apple, for example. Through cross-breeding, we have managed to raise the sugar content of apples by 50% over the years, so that consumers will have access to a sweeter apple. Research by the U.S. Department of Agriculture uncovered the fact that modern apples now have the equivalent of four teaspoons of sugar. While sugar is a well-known contributor to cavities, many of us don’t realize that the effects of acid on teeth can be just as damaging.
That Tangy Apple is Full of Acid
If you were in the middle of enjoying an apple, and someone told you it was just as bad for your teeth as a soda or sports drink, you’d probably be shocked. Unfortunately, apples do have an alarmingly high amount of acidity. Acid erodes the protective layer of enamel that covers your teeth. Without tooth enamel, bacteria can work their way into the dentin of your teeth and begin the process of tooth decay. For this reason, many dentists are recommending that you consider an apple more of a dessert. Eat your apples along with a meal, making sure to rinse with water after consumption. Waiting 30 minutes to brush your teeth after any acidic food is wise, so that your tooth enamel has a chance to re-mineralize after acid exposure.
Call Your Houston Dentist for a Checkup
If you are due for a dental checkup, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gennero. You can reach our Houston dentist office at (281)578-6200. We are pleased to provide comprehensive dentistry to patients from Clear Lake to The Woodlands, including Katy, West Houston, Sugarland, the 77084 zip code, and surrounding communities.
