pH

Understanding pH is essential to understanding the infection known as Caries (Cavities). pH is a scale from 1- 14. 1 being the most acidic, 14 being the most basic and 7 being neutral. The ideal pH of the mouth is rite around a pH of 7. When oral pH drops to 6.3, the root surface starts to dissolve (Decay). At 5.5 the Enamel starts to dissolve (decay).

When we ingest sugary foods and drinks the bacteria in our mouths eats the sugar and produces acids that drop the pH of our mouths low enough to cause the tooth structure to dissolve (decay). Sodas and Juices are double trouble because they have pH's in the 2.9-3.7 range. These drinks wash away layers of tooth structure on contact due to their low pH, then the sugar is digested by bacteria and turned into even more acid.

As if this process wasn't complicated enough, the majority of tooth pastes and dental rinses are acidic enough to dissolve (decay) tooth structure with every use. The FDA does not require pH information on product labels, so Dr. Armstrong has invested in a pH meter and testing of over the counter and prescription dental products, to ensure that only the best and safest dental products are offered at Advanced Dental Concepts.