Acidity and Cavities in Campbell CA: My Child Keeps Getting Cavities?

Let’s look at Acidity and Cavities in Campbell CA and why many parents who ensure their children brush twice a day, floss regularly, and eat healthy snacks still find their kids developing cavities. At Campbell Pediatric Dentistry we understand how acidity affects oral health and can help protect your child’s teeth and reduce the risk of decay.

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Acidity & Cavities in Campbell CA

You may be diligent about helping your child with oral hygiene and ensuring they avoid excessive sugar, but cavities still appear. This can be frustrating and leave you wondering if you’re doing something wrong.

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Removing Guilt: Understanding Tooth Decay

The human body is complex, and oral health is no different. There are 10,000 genes responsible for tooth formation, and some dental conditions, including susceptibility to cavities, can be genetic. Multiple factors contribute to tooth decay, and they must align to create the "perfect storm" that leads to cavities. While some elements are beyond control, parents can significantly influence diet and oral hygiene practices to help prevent decay.

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The Role of Acidity in Oral Health

Tooth enamel remains strong when the mouth's pH stays above 5.5. Neutral pH, around 7, is maintained by water and saliva. However, eating and drinking—even healthy foods—drops pH levels, making enamel more susceptible to decay. Frequent snacking or sipping acidic beverages throughout the day prolongs exposure to harmful acid, increasing cavity risk. When carbohydrates are added to the mix, they break down into simple sugars, feeding bacteria that erode enamel and create cavities.

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Acidic Foods and Their Impact

Certain foods and drinks contribute to acidity in the mouth, impacting oral health. Below is a breakdown of foods by their acidity levels:

High Acidity Foods

• Applesauce
• Cherries
• Mangoes
• Oranges
• Plums
• Iced tea
• Carbonated beverages
• Pickles
• Grapefruit
• Sports drinks (e.g., Gatorade, Propel)
• Some bottled waters

Medium Acidity Foods

• Apples
• Pesto
• Pears
• Apricots

Low Acidity Foods

• Probiotic yogurt
• Cucumbers
• Cheese
• Avocado
• Bananas
• Wheat bread

While highly acidic foods should not be eliminated entirely, it’s best to consume them in one sitting rather than spread throughout the day. Drinking water with these foods helps neutralize acid. For children who snack frequently, opting for low-acidity foods and ensuring adequate water intake can help maintain strong, healthy teeth.

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Preventing Acid-Related Cavities

To minimize the impact of acidity on teeth, consider these strategies:

• Limit frequent snacking: Give teeth time to recover from acid exposure
• Drink water with meals and snacks: Water helps wash away acids and food particles
• Choose low-acidity snacks: Offer foods like cheese, cucumbers, and yogurt instead of high-acid options
• Use fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinse: Fluoride strengthens enamel, making teeth more resistant to acid attacks
• Avoid sticky, sugary treats: Gummy candies, fruit snacks, and sour candies cling to teeth, increasing cavity risk

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Understanding the Difference Between Acidic Foods and Acid-Producing Foods

Not all acidic foods have the same effect on oral health. Some foods are acidic when consumed but do not create an acidic environment in the bloodstream. This guide focuses on foods that impact teeth during and immediately after consumption, not their effects after digestion.

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By being mindful of acidity levels in foods and promoting strong oral hygiene habits, parents can help reduce cavity risk and support their child’s long-term dental health. If you have concerns about your child’s teeth, consult with the team at Campbell Pediatric Dentistry in Campbell CA for personalized advice and preventive care.