What Acid Reflux Does to Your Teeth (And How to Save Your Smile)

Photo by Tony Litvyak on Unsplash

If you’ve ever felt that burning sensation in your chest or the sour taste of stomach acid in your mouth, you’re not alone. Acid reflux affects millions of people—and while most of us focus on the discomfort it causes in our stomach or throat, there’s another part of your body that’s quietly suffering: your teeth.

The Hidden Damage: Acid Reflux and Oral Health

Stomach acid is powerful. It's meant to break down food—but when it travels up into the esophagus and sometimes all the way into your mouth, it can do serious damage to your teeth. Over time, acid reflux can erode your enamel, inflame your gums, and increase your risk of cavities. Here’s what you need to know:

Tooth Enamel Erosion

Tooth enamel is your smile’s first line of defense. But it’s no match for the corrosive power of stomach acid. Repeated exposure—especially overnight when saliva production slows down—can wear away this protective layer. Once enamel is gone, it doesn’t grow back, making your teeth more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity.

Tooth Discoloration

As the enamel thins, the inner part of the tooth, called dentin, begins to show through. Dentin is naturally more yellow or gray than enamel, so your teeth may start to appear discolored no matter how well you brush.

Increased Sensitivity

If you find yourself wincing when sipping hot tea or biting into a cold apple, enamel erosion might be the cause. Acid reflux can make your teeth much more sensitive by exposing the nerve-rich layers underneath.

Bad Breath

That sour taste in your mouth isn’t just unpleasant—it can lead to halitosis, or chronic bad breath. Acid lingering in your mouth, especially at night, can create an environment where odor-causing bacteria thrive.

Gum Irritation

Acid doesn’t just damage teeth—it can inflame and irritate your gums too. You might notice redness, tenderness, or even receding gums, which can expose more of the tooth and lead to further sensitivity.

Signs Your Teeth Might Be Suffering from Acid Reflux

Sometimes the damage isn't obvious—until it is. Watch for these early warning signs:

• A dull ache or sharp pain while eating or brushing

• Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods

• Teeth that appear flattened, chipped, or translucent at the edges

• Yellowing or discoloration, especially on the inner surfaces

• Persistent dry mouth, especially upon waking

Why Nighttime Reflux Is Especially Harmful

Nighttime reflux does double damage:

• You’re lying down, so acid travels upward more easily.

• Saliva production drops while you sleep, meaning your body’s natural defense against acid is reduced.

This prolonged exposure is a key reason why some people wake up with a sour taste, sore throat—and worsening dental damage.

Tip: Sleep on your left side with your head elevated to reduce reflux episodes and protect your teeth.

How to Protect Your Teeth from Acid Reflux

The good news? With a few smart habits, you can limit the impact reflux has on your oral health:

• Rinse with water after reflux episodes. Don’t brush right away—acid softens enamel, and brushing too soon can worsen erosion.

• Wait 30 minutes before brushing. Let your saliva neutralize acid first.

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.

• Chew sugar-free gum to increase saliva and naturally rinse acid from the mouth.

• Limit acidic foods and drinks like citrus, soda, vinegar, and tomato-based products.

• Choose non-acidic snacks such as bananas, melons, oats, or steamed veggies.

• Stay hydrated with plain water throughout the day.

• Elevate your head while sleeping to prevent nighttime reflux from reaching your mouth.

• Avoid eating 2–3 hours before bed.

• See your dentist regularly for checkups and preventive care like enamel-strengthening treatments.

When to Talk to Your Dentist or Doctor

If you experience:

• Frequent heartburn or regurgitation

• New or increasing tooth sensitivity

• Enamel wear or tooth discoloration

…it’s time to speak up. Your dentist can evaluate the damage and recommend protective treatments, while your doctor can help manage your reflux at the source.

Dental Products That Help

To protect and repair your smile, consider:

• pH-balancing mouth rinses

• Prescription fluoride toothpaste

• Toothpaste with nano-hydroxyapatite, which helps remineralize enamel

• Soft floss or picks that are gentle on irritated gums

• Night guards if you also grind your teeth, which can worsen enamel damage

Final Thoughts

Acid reflux is more than a digestive nuisance—it’s a dental health threat that can sneak up on you. But the sooner you take action, the more you can protect your teeth from irreversible damage. With mindful eating, gentle dental care, and the right treatment plan, you can manage reflux and preserve your healthy smile for years to come.