How Acid Reflux Can Affect Your Oral Health

What is acid reflux?

Well… one thing it is is painful. Recent medical science has shown us that more than a third of otherwise healthy Americans suffer from heartburn at least once a month, and 7 percent every day. Infants, children, and adults alike can be affected by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, or acid reflux), though its incidence rises sharply after the age of 40.

Life with acid reflux is as uncomfortable as it is, unfortunately, common.

Acid reflux occurs when digestive acids present in the stomach make their way back up into the esophagus, which then causes irritation and inflammation; the symptoms you may be familiar with include belching, heartburn, nausea, and difficulty swallowing, but what you may not know is that acid reflux can also have a significant negative impact on your oral health.

When stomach acid enters the esophagus and results in vomiting or food regurgitation, these acids coat the surface of the tongue and teeth and left untreated can do a number on your enamel. Then we’re talking tooth sensitivity, decay, damage and bad breath.

Is acid reflux the same as heartburn?

Acid reflux and heartburn are related but not exactly the same:

Acid Reflux

• What it is: A condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus (the tube connecting your throat to your stomach).
• Cause: Weakening or relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which normally keeps stomach contents in place.
• Symptoms:
  • Heartburn (a burning sensation in the chest)
  • Regurgitation (sour or bitter taste in the mouth)
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Chronic cough or throat irritation

Heartburn

• What it is: A symptom of acid reflux characterized by a burning sensation in the chest or throat.
• Cause: Stomach acid irritating the lining of the esophagus.
• Triggers:
  • Spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
  • Overeating
  • Lying down after eating
  • Stress or certain medications

Key Difference

• Acid Reflux: A broader condition that may cause multiple symptoms, including heartburn.
• Heartburn: A specific symptom of acid reflux or other conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Whether you have chronic acid reflux or heartburn let your Dentist know.

Knowing how your gastrointestinal health can affect your oral health is the first step toward maintaining your overall health — and toward protecting those pearly whites. During your next check up and cleaning let us know if you have acid reflux, so that we can be aware of your health concerns; we’ll take the time to look for signs of enamel erosion and discuss possible causes, and the appropriate course of treatment.

In the meantime, do your part to protect your teeth:

• • After a particularly intense reflux episode, you may be tempted to run and brush your teeth. Maybe don’t do that. Immediate brushing may damage already acid weakened enamel.
  • Sugar-free chewing gum will stimulate the flow of saliva, which reduces acid in your mouth.
  • Consider using toothpaste and mouth rinse with fluoride. If you’re unsure which product is the best to use, ask your Gainesville dentist.

Schedule an appointment with Gainesville Dental Associates today.

Your teeth are strong and healthy, a solid foundation for your strong and healthy smile; let’s keep them that way.