Do you have Tooth Decay, Dry Mouth, Bad Breath or Dental Erosion?
You may have Saliva which is Acidic or Inadequate Saliva
Did you know that the acidity of your mouth can affect the health of your teeth? Saliva plays an important role in neutralising acid produced by bacteria following eating.
If there is an imbalance in the acidity of the saliva you produce or you produce too little saliva, it can cause dental tooth decay, dry mouth, dental erosion and bad breathe. Maintaining a neutral or slightly alkaline oral environment allows for a healthy balance of good vs bad bacteria and prevents the dissolution of hard tooth structure.
In some cases, an acidic oral environment may be due to undiagnosed medical conditions or habits including:
- gastro oesophageal reflux (GORD / heart burn)
- dehydration
- xerostomia (dry mouth) – often caused by various prescription medications
- peptic/ulcers
- overly acidic diet
- use of certain oral care products which promote acid imbalance
- alcohol consumption and smoking
Many patients we see are often unaware that they have an oral acidity imbalance or that they are suffering from an underlaying medical condition which affects the quality or quantity of their saliva. Other patients are often able to finally explain unexpected and rapid deterioration of their teeth despite meticulous oral hygiene practices – saliva and an acidic/dry oral environment may be the key.
Have your Saliva pH Balance Checked Today in Brisbane
To check if your saliva is acidic, our dentists are able to provide complimentary saliva testing as part of your comprehensive examination or regular checkup. The test is fast, simple and gives rapid results.
Based on the results of your saliva test, your dentist is able to provide treatment options to address the cause of your acidic saliva or dry mouth.
For a complimentary saliva test and analysis as part of your comprehensive examination, give us a call on 07 3357 4177 today.