Medical Emergencies · single question
Which of the following foods causes DENTAL EROSION?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Tea
Tea (D) — particularly citrus-flavored teas, herbal teas with acidic additives, and iced teas — causes dental erosion due to their low pH. Plain black tea has lower erosive potential, but acidic teas definitely contribute.
• Dental erosion: irreversible loss of tooth structure by chemical dissolution without bacterial involvement (not caries). Acid source: intrinsic (GERD, bulimia) or extrinsic (diet, drinks).
• Highly erosive foods/drinks: citrus fruits, sodas/carbonated drinks, energy drinks, vinegar-based foods, sports drinks.
• Protective foods (not erosive):
- Cheese (B): raises pH, contains casein and calcium — protective!
- Milk (C): calcium-rich, neutral-basic pH — protective.
- Almond butter (A): not significantly acidic.
• After erosive food/drink: wait 30 minutes before brushing (enamel is temporarily softened).
• Dental erosion: irreversible loss of tooth structure by chemical dissolution without bacterial involvement (not caries). Acid source: intrinsic (GERD, bulimia) or extrinsic (diet, drinks).
• Highly erosive foods/drinks: citrus fruits, sodas/carbonated drinks, energy drinks, vinegar-based foods, sports drinks.
• Protective foods (not erosive):
- Cheese (B): raises pH, contains casein and calcium — protective!
- Milk (C): calcium-rich, neutral-basic pH — protective.
- Almond butter (A): not significantly acidic.
• After erosive food/drink: wait 30 minutes before brushing (enamel is temporarily softened).
Practice Medical Emergencies questions Medical Emergencies study notes