Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, but lemon juice is highly acidic and can cause tooth enamel erosion over time. The combination of lemon water and sugar seriously increases the risk of tooth decay.
The pH level in lemon juice is around 2-3 pH, which means that frequent and prolonged intake damages the teeth.
Acidic foods and drinks can cause enamel erosion. Tooth erosion is the loss of enamel, most commonly caused by high levels of acidity. When enamel wears away, it exposes the underlying dentin and can cause tooth sensitivity. Because dentin is more yellow than enamel, tooth erosion also often results in staining or yellow teeth.
To enjoy your favorite drink while taking care of your health, follow some simple but effective tips:
1. Squeeze the lemon juice into 250ml warm water to reduce acidity;
2. Brush your teeth before drinking;
3. Be sure to use freshly squeezed lemon juice;
4. Use a straw to minimize contact of the liquid with the teeth;
5. Try to drink quickly;
6. Rinse your mouth with plain water after drinking lemon water;
7. Wait at least two hours before brushing your teeth after drinking lemon water to allow the calcium in the saliva to remineralize your teeth;
8. Use a soft toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste (fluoride hardens enamel). The acid softens the enamel and makes it more susceptible to erosion during brushing.
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