Does Lemon Water Ruin Your Teeth?
Monica Reinagel, MS, LD/N, CNS
Q. I’m in the habit of sipping on water with a slice of lemon throughout the day. Could the acid in the lemon be damaging my teeth?
Answer. Undiluted lemon juice is definitely acidic enough to wear away the enamel on your teeth. A slice of lemon in a glass of water is much less likely to cause a problem. Then again, even diluted lemon juice could potentially affect your teeth if you are sipping on it all day long. Drinking through a straw can help minimize contact of the liquid with your teeth. Chewing a piece of sugarless gum will help remove acidic residue from your teeth. Or, many people find water with a slice of fresh cucumber refreshing.
But what ever you do, don’t brush your teeth immediately after drinking wine, lemon juice, or other acidic liquids. The combination of the acid and the mild abrasives in the toothpaste can really do a number on the enamel. If you’ve been drinking acidic liquids, swish your mouth out with fresh water before brushing and use a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive toothpaste.
Image courtesy of Shutterstock.
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.Â