Do limes really miss up your enamel on your teeth?

Hi! I've been in dentistry for over 25 years. And any food that is extremely high in acid can contribute to eroding the enamel on the teeth. However, you would have to suck on them for a rather long period of time for this to cause major damage. If you rinse after, you will be okay, but why risk it? Enamel is tough stuff, but constant abuse will cause it to weaken and break. Or worse yet get major decay and end up with root canals or crowns. If you need to chew on a lime piece, do so and then brush and rinse thoroughly. If you can't break the habit, ask your dentist for a fluoride gel that you can put on your teeth each night before bed. DO NOT rinse or drink for at least 30 minutes or more. This will strengthen your teeth and stop any erosion. BUT the other issue is what is it doing to your gums, mucus membrane and your over all oral hygiene? This can cause other problems as well. The best thing is just do not. If you are drinking limeade fine, brush the sugar away and you will fine. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask. Marie

Do limes really miss up your enamel on your teeth?
Yah its the citric acids that eat at your teeth.
Reply:yes lemons too. only after prolonged exposure
Reply:The citris acid
Reply:I wouldn't necessarily say that they mess up your teeth. Anything with a lot of citrus or acid has the potential to remove small amounts of enamel if left on long enough. Just make sure to keep your teeth clean, or even chew on sugarless gum to help absorb the extra juices.
Reply:You betcha they do! So do lemons and soda's. Anything very acidic will wear off layers of enamel. Even brushing too hard can cause wear and tear!
Reply:Only if it's constantly on your teeth because it is a type of acid.



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