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Latest in dentistry |
A healthy lifestyle can have an unhealthy effect on teeth GSK reveals that Modern Lifestyle attacks teeth A healthy lifestyle can have an unhealthy effect on teeth GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), the leading oral care expert, has revealed a link between the acid erosion of teeth and the modern diet. Acid erosion is the wear to tooth enamel caused by the 21st century lifestyle which threatens the teeth of both men and women of all ages. This dental condition is a form of erosion that is caused by acid softening the surface of the tooth’s enamel and which results in a reduced enamel thickness which can lead to changes to the teeth such as changes to texture, shape and appearance. Teeth can also become sensitive. Today there is generally a greater understanding about lifestyle, health and nutrition. The modern diet is considered healthier than in the past with more low sugar and low fat options, but GSK warns that the food and drink consumed as part of the modern diet is often highly acidic and can irreversibly damage teeth. There is a trend to drink fruit juice, which is seen as more healthy and nutritious, and to choose low calorie drinks and low fat food options. But acid found in many fruits, fruit juices, teas, vinegar and certain diet or non-diet soft drinks such as fizzy colas, can cause the softening of the teeth’s enamel surface making the enamel prone to wear. Modern cooking trends can also affect the acidic content of food. Research from the University of Dundee in the United Kingdom found that roasting vegetables such as courgettes, onions and peppers in the oven increased their acidity compared with traditional cooking methods such as stewing and boiling. Other demands of modern life have also contributed to the increased risk of Acid Erosion to teeth ... Contd....