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Citrus – Too Much Of A Good Thing? Marietta, GA

Citrus – Too Much Of A Good Thing?

You are not alone if you find yourself reaching for more fruit during these hot summer days. Fruit is always an excellent snack choice considering its essential nutritional benefits for your health. Although all fruits contribute to your oral health in a positive way, there are some fruits that are better than others. Too much of a good thing can be said about citrus fruits and your smile.

The Good

Citrus fruits include oranges, grapefruit, pineapples, lemons and tangerines. There is no denying the fact that these fruits do offer an important abundance of Vitamin C. We need Vitamin C for healthy gums, as it is critical for maintaining its collagen. People with a Vitamin C deficiency often suffer from bleeding gums, which can lead to unstable teeth. Eating raw fruits, including citrus fruits, can also be helpful in saliva-production and cleansing your mouth.

The Bad

While it is perfectly fine and even encouraged that you include citrus fruits in your diet, it does matter how you do it. Consuming citrus fruits too often or letting these acidic foods sit in your mouth for too long can invite trouble. In other words, eating a few oranges throughout the week won’t do any harm; yet sucking on a lemon every day can wreak havoc on your teeth.

The problem with citrus is its highly acidic properties, combined with significant sugar content. The acid from citrus fruits can coat your teeth and start to soften and erode your tooth enamel. Since enamel doesn’t grow back, you’ll find that your smile is now exposed to tooth decay and compromised to other dental health complications. Lemons and limes are especially harsh on your smile!

What You Can Do

If you just can’t let go of citrus foods in your daily diet, there are some steps you can take to ensure they do not damage your teeth. After you enjoy that orange or drink grapefruit juice, simply wash it down with a glass of water. You can wash away the harmful acids so that your tooth enamel is protected and your mouth maintains a proper pH balance. Try to wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Brushing too soon can actually abrade tooth enamel because your teeth may still be soft after the recent acid exposure.

It is important that you include fruits as a part of a well-balanced diet. However, take caution when it comes to citrus fruits and your smile. Too much of a good thing could ruin the healthy smile you are trying to promote!

Posted on behalf of Dr. Paul Gilreath IV, Gilreath Family Dentistry Marietta

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Our Client Reviews
Gilreath Family Dentistry

Sarah Khatib

Dr. Daniel Lee is the best dentist I've seen. She's so considerate of your fear of the dentist and was so painless although multiple procedures were done at the same time to save me a visit. Will definitely be coming here for years to come Il!

Susan

Dr. Gilreath is incredible with my kids. They love going to the dentist now! And this busy mom loves the warm neck wraps, the soft music and enjoying a latte while I relax!

Kenneth H.

Was lucky enough to find these guys when I got insurance that my old dentist did not take. Very professional and friendly staff! Office has the latest greatest technology as well. If you're looking for a new dentist, search no further!

Susie L.

Very personable and friendly, they took the time to go over my complex dental history and did not pressure me into anything. They gave their recommendations and priced out any options I had. Great group!

Camille Y.

Dr. Gilreath and his staff are top notch. I received the best cleaning I've ever had while watching my favorite show. The Doctor and his staff were all very polite, friendly, and courteous. They explained everything to me clearly and presented me with options in a gentle way that didn't make me feel pressured at all. It's obvious they really care about the wellbeing of their patients. The facility and equipment is really nice as well. I will definitely be back!

Juan R.

Always willing to work around my kids and my schedules. Today I had a long appointment. They started on time and always made sure I was comfortable and that the pain was managed so the procedure could’ve been completed without issues. Very courteous and professional staff.

Lucia B.

Awesome dental practice! The staff is friendly and efficient. Dr. Gilreath is thorough and versed in the latest technology and procedures. I love that he can make crowns in the office while you wait (so no walking around with a temporary crown for days or weeks). I would strongly recommend this dental practice!

Matthew W.

I've been going here for about a little over a year now. I've had a few cleanings, a filling, and started Invisiline so far. Hands down, the best run dental office I've ever been to. In the past at other dental offices I often had to wait 30 or more minutes beyond my appointment time before being seen. At Dr. Gilreath's office I've been seen on time every time. They seem to have systems in place to make every part of your visit run smoothly. From how they took x-rays, to billing and appointments, to the work done by the hygienist/dentist, everything seems to run like a well oiled machine. On top of that all the staff are all friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. The office space itself is also quite nice. Very clean, well maintained, and seems very "up to date" with their equipment. If you're looking for a dentist and are anywhere in the northwest metro area I would highly recommend Dr. Gilreath.

Our Office

Gilreath Family Dentistry

200 White St NW
Marietta, GA 30060

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