Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects about 20% of Americans [1]. Also called acid reflux, this uncomfortable condition happens when stomach acid leaks into the esophagus, which can cause an uncomfortable burning sensation in the chest, especially after eating certain foods or taking certain medications. Smoking and being overweight can also influence gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Acid reflux can cause traces of stomach acid to end up in the oral cavity, which is why some people have a bad taste in their mouth along with other symptoms of GERD. This acid can be very corrosive to teeth and cause enamel damage and an increased risk for tooth sensitivity and cavities.
So what can you do to protect your teeth and ease your acid reflux? Here are a few simple steps to save your smile.
Avoid Acidic Foods
The most common foods associated with acid reflux include acidic foods such as tomatoes, lemons, and even fruit juice. However, greasy or fried foods, as well as carbonated beverages such as soda or sparkling water, can also aggravate acid reflux [2]. Avoiding or limiting these foods and drinks in your diet can help protect your teeth and potentially reduce your GERD symptoms.
Drink Water
Drinking water while eating and after eating may help soothe acid reflux, as long as you aren’t too full, as overeating can worsen acid reflux. However, drinking water also serves another important purpose—it helps rinse out your mouth and buffer your teeth from the harmful acids in GERD. If you have an episode of acid reflux, rinsing your mouth with water is the best way to protect your smile.
Don’t Lie Down
If you struggle with acid reflux, it’s important not to lie down after a meal. In fact, moving slowly and not exercising after eating may help prevent symptoms of acid reflux. If you can, try to stay upright for about three hours after your last meal to reduce symptoms and protect your oral health [3].
Chew Sugarless Gum
Similarly to drinking water, chewing sugarless gum can help prevent harmful acids in the oral cavity from damaging teeth. However, tentative research also shows that chewing sugarless gum may help prevent acid reflux and reduce acidity in the esophagus in the first place [4]. Consider adding a sugarless gum to your list of things to do to help prevent acid reflux or reduce symptoms. As a bonus, chewing sugarless gum may also help prevent cavities.
Follow Up With Your Doctors
Your physician as well as your dentist play a role in protecting your smile from GERD. Your physician can help you manage and treat your acid reflux to prevent damage to your body and your smile, while your dentist can conduct regular checkups and cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Always keep up with your regular appointments to reduce the impact of GERD and catch any potential problems early!
Sources:
1. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-
adults/definition-facts
2. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/gerd-diet-foods-
that-help-with-acid-reflux-heartburn
3. https://www.health.harvard.edu/digestive-health/9-ways-to-relieve-acid-reflux-
without-medication
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16246942/
