Dentists in Boca Raton, FL Discuss Link to Tooth Decay

As the seasons change, many people experience sniffles and coughs. Thankfully, there are some over-the-counter syrups that make the symptoms bearable. What many people don’t know is that some of these add more than just relief to your ailing body; they also bring tooth decay.

 

Cough Syrups Lead to Tooth Decay

 

There are several cough syrups on the market which contain ingredients that lead to tooth decay. Here’s what to watch for:

 

Sugary Substances

Look for ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup or sucrose as these are high in sugar. The bacteria living in your mouth love to feed on these products. When they do, acids form and break down your tooth enamel.

 

Acidic Substances

Watch for citric acid because it is also known to wear down tooth enamel. On top of that, some of the antihistamine syrups come with a lower pH level which means they are more acidic. This is a nasty combination. 

 

Alcohol

Syrups with alcohol as an ingredient can leave a dry feeling in your mouth. When you experience a lack of saliva, you are more vulnerable to decay. Saliva washes away all the sugar and acid on your teeth and protects your enamel. The longer these ingredients sit on the teeth, the more damage they cause.

 

What’s the Solution?

 

If you need to find relief from your cough symptoms, follow these guidelines to protect your teeth.

 

• Don’t take medications at bedtime. You produce less saliva overnight and the sugars will be able to eat away the enamel for longer periods of time.

• Take the medication with your meal. There is an increase in saliva production when you eat. This helps to wash away sugars and acids.

• Give your teeth a brushing. This also helps to wash away any dangerous ingredients.

• Rinse your mouth with water. If you do this right after taking the syrup, you can help wash away bad ingredients.

• Opt for pills instead of syrup. Look for alternatives to the syrups you often take.

 

Take care of your coughs with the wide array of products on the market. There’s no need to suffer, but keep your dental health in mind when choosing what to use. Then, you can have a healthy smile and body.

 

Need to schedule a routine exam with one of our leading dentists in Boca Raton, FL? Please give our office a call at (561) 391-0020. Our accomodating staff will help you find an appointment time that works for you.