Is Apple Cider Vinegar Bad for Your Teeth?

From wellness coaches and influencers to home remedy websites, apple cider vinegar has been touted as a cure-all for a wide range of health issues, including everything from acid reflux to eczema and high blood pressure. However, what these resources often don’t address is the impact that drinking something so acidic every day can have on your teeth. Read on to learn more about how apple cider vinegar can affect your enamel and whether the risks outweigh the benefits.

Why Do People Drink Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is fermented apple juice that’s often added to marinades, brines, salad dressings, and more. However, more recently, people have started implementing it into their daily routine as a way to fortify their health, and in some cases, whiten their teeth.

While there are a few studies that have illustrated the benefits of regularly consuming apple cider vinegar to help with conditions like high blood pressure, many wellness claims have been debunked or have little to no evidence surrounding them. Some people even use apple cider vinegar to help whiten their teeth, but while it can have a bleaching effect, it comes with serious risks.

The Risks of Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar Regularly

Most dentists would guide you to not whiten your teeth with apple cider vinegar, as it risks your oral health, especially if you’re consuming it daily. Prolonged consumption can lead to three serious threats, including:

• Enamel Erosion: Something as acidic as vinegar will erode the outermost layer of your teeth, called enamel. This can increase your risk of tooth sensitivity, discoloration, damage to existing dental restorations, cavities, and even tooth loss.
• Throat Burn: If you’re consuming too much vinegar, it can lead to throat burn, injuring your esophagus. This can lead to nausea, pain, and even vomiting blood.
• Adverse Interactions with Medications: If you take insulin, water pills, Digoxin, or other medications to manage certain medical conditions, you may experience poor reactions.

Is it Possible to Drink Apple Cider Vinegar Safely?

Like everything in life, moderation is key. The risks of apple cider vinegar aren’t incredibly high, but with time, you may notice that it has a negative impact on your oral and overall health. If you’re using it to whiten your teeth, consider trying a safer, more tried-and-true solution, like professional teeth whitening from your cosmetic dentist. You can also dilute the vinegar with warm water (two parts vinegar, three parts water) to tamper down the acidity.

In any case, it’s always important to let your dentist and physician know what natural remedies you’re using to boost your health, as you never know what impact they could have on the rest of your body!

About the Practice

At Chester County Dental Arts, our team is comprised of three highly experienced professionals, owner and general dentist, Dr. Mark Simeone, orthodontist, Dr. Ronni Bruck, and general dentist, Dr. Sara Raja. With their wide breadth of knowledge, our team is able to offer comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages in a state-of-the-art facility. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call 610-383-1600.