Oral Acidosis

The pH of the mouth directly affects the health of the oral cavity and teeth

Saliva: An astonishing product of our organism

Saliva is a secretion that has many fundamental functions. Besides being an integral part of the digestive process, it plays a crucial role in the health of teeth and the oral cavity:

Protection

  • Buffering effect on acids from external (food) and internal (gastro-oesophageal reflux) sources
  • Antibacterial effect
  • Defence against pathogens
  • Mouth cleaning/rinsing food and bacteria
  • Preventing demineralisation and promotes remineralisation
    Moisturises the mucosa

 

Biofilm

  • Saliva proteins coat the enamel surface and regulate biofilm formation and growth
  • Maintains the balance and integrity of the oral microbiota
Biofilm Image

A biofilm is a slimy layer of bacteria and other microorganisms that stick together on a surface, forming a protective shield. In the mouth, biofilm forms when bacteria attach to teeth, gums, or other surfaces.

What is Oral Acidosis?

Oral acidosis refers to an increase in acidity within the mouth, leading to a lower-than-normal pH level in the oral environment.

This condition can result from various factors and may contribute to dental and oral health problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, and erosion of tooth enamel.

The normal pH of saliva is slightly alkaline, ranging from 6.2 to 7.6. When the pH drops below this range, the acidic environment can damage teeth and affect overall oral health.

Symptoms of Oral Acidosis

The symptoms of oral acidosis may not always be immediately noticeable, but over time, the condition can lead to:

  • Increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
  • Tooth enamel erosion, leading to dull, weakened, or discolored teeth
  • Frequent cavities or tooth decay
  • Inflamed or irritated gums, potentially leading to gum disease
  • Bad breath (halitosis) due to the buildup of bacteria

Causes of Oral Acidosis

Dietary Habits

Consuming acidic foods and beverages such as citrus fruits, soda, and vinegar-based products can lower the pH in the mouth. Sugary foods and drinks also feed harmful bacteria that produce acid, leading to acidosis.

Bacterial Activity

Plaque buildup on teeth harbors bacteria that produce lactic acid as a byproduct of metabolizing sugars. This bacterial acid can further decrease oral pH, leading to tooth enamel demineralization and increased risk of cavities.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

A decrease in saliva production can cause the mouth to become more acidic. Saliva helps to neutralize acids and wash away food particles, and when its production is reduced, the risk of acidosis increases.

Medical Conditions

Conditions such as acid reflux (GERD), diabetes, and certain medications can increase the acidity in the mouth, contributing to oral acidosis.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which provides a breeding ground for acid-producing bacteria.

Natural buffer

Traditional products for managing acidosis, although effective, their action is limited in time when in continuous contact with acidic substances.

Salifluss® regulates saliva pH with its unique buffering system based on the action of natural molecules (Carnosine and Hibiscus Sabdariffa).

Salifluss®, thanks to its natural systemic approach, guarantees a prolonged and long-lasting restoration of physiological pH levels

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What happens if oral acidosis is not improved?

Oral Consequences

High acidity in the mouth can erode the enamel, the protective outer layer of teeth. Over time, this weakens teeth, making them more prone to decay, cavities, and structural damage.

Enamel erosion from acidity can expose the inner layers of teeth, leading to heightened sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweet foods or drinks.

Acidosis can disrupt the balance of oral bacteria, increasing the likelihood of gum inflammation (gingivitis) and periodontitis, which can result in gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss if untreated.

The acidic environment can foster the growth of bacteria that produce unpleasant odors, leading to chronic halitosis (bad breath).

High acidity may lead to oral ulcers and sores, causing discomfort or pain when eating, drinking, or speaking.

Systemic Consequences

Oral acidosis promotes the growth of harmful bacteria and pathogens in the mouth. These can enter the bloodstream, leading to infections that spread to other parts of the body, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.

There is growing evidence that oral health is linked to heart health. Chronic inflammation and infections caused by acidosis may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes.

The digestive process starts in the mouth, and saliva’s role in breaking down food can be impaired by excessive acidity. This can lead to indigestion or poor nutrient absorption.

Ongoing inflammation in the mouth can contribute to systemic inflammation, which has been linked to various chronic diseases, including diabetes, arthritis, and some autoimmune conditions.

Acidosis and resulting oral infections may strain the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off other infections and illnesses.

Chronic discomfort, tooth loss, and infections can impact quality of life, making it difficult to eat, speak, or even sleep properly, leading to broader psychological and physical health issues.