While pineapples are a delicious and healthy fruit, all foods with high acidic levels may be harmful to your teeth. This is because acidic foods can weaken the enamel that protects your teeth. Fortunately, how often you eat pineapple and even the way you chew it can reduce your risk of tooth damage.
Pineapples and Tooth Decay
According to an article on the website Divine Caroline, acidic foods like pineapple, limes, and lemons start a chemical process in your mouth, which softens tooth enamel and leads to tooth decay. While pineapples do not necessarily cause tooth decay directly, exposing your teeth to acidic foods for long periods of time is not a good idea. When protective tooth enamel is broken down, teeth become more prone to structural damage.
Symptoms of Enamel Damage
According to an article published on ToothDecay.com, a common symptom of enamel erosion is tooth pain or extreme sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods. People with enamel damage especially feel discomfort when drinking particularly cold or particularly hot beverages. Pay attention to how your teeth feel. If you notice that they are extremely sensitive, ask your dentist if your teeth appear to have enamel damage.
Protect Your Teeth
When eating an acidic fruit like pineapple, avoid sinking your front teeth into the fruit for longer than necessary. The Tooth Decay article explains that doing so increases the amount of time that your teeth are exposed to the acids, and this can increase the damage to the enamel. Keep this in mind when drinking an acidic beverage such as pineapple juice, lemonade or soda, too. Do not swish the drink in your mouth longer than necessary.
Reduce Your Risk of Tooth Damage
Pineapple and other acidic fruits are good for your health when eaten in moderation. To reduce your risk of tooth damage, after you eat pineapple, brush your teeth or enjoy a piece of sugarless gum to help remove extra acid from your teeth. If you notice symptoms of tooth damage, talk to your dentist. There are anti-hypersensitivity toothpastes designed for people with sensitive teeth, and your dentist can recommend an effective toothpaste that can neutralize pH levels and help re-harden the softened tooth surface.