Apple Cider Vinegar: Healthy or Harmful?

Home remedies for various health problems are quite common. In some cases, they are backed by scientific evidence, while others are purely anecdotal. One alternative health practice that is gaining popularity is consuming apple cider vinegar. Whether supported by science or not, people praise apple cider vinegar as a method to treat acne, fight diabetes, stimulate weight loss, and help prevent cancer. Few people, however, are aware of the effects of using apple cider vinegar in regard to teeth.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Teeth

As most people know, vinegar is an acidic food. Apple cider vinegar rates as very acidic on the pH scale, with a score more acidic than soda, close to that of lemon juice, and trailing not far behind stomach acid. Most people also know that highly acidic foods are damaging to tooth enamel. This damage is increased the more vinegar comes in contact with the teeth.

Recommendations for Using Apple Cider Vinegar

Always talk to your doctor before starting any new health regimen. If your doctor supports the choice to use this home health remedy to treat your condition, or improve overall health, we recommend to never use it as a mouthwash, and to dilute it whenever possible.

Always remember to wait at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic foods or beverages before brushing, so as to not further harm to enamel.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leonard, call our office at 952-443-3368.