Patients who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can lower the pH in their throats to 2. When saliva reaches a pH of 6, it becomes acid and can begin to decalcify teeth. Exposed root surfaces can become sensitive or quickly decay, causing deterioration from dental visit to dental visit. GERD develops when the lining of the esophagus becomes irritated due to acids backing up from the stomach. Symptoms include problems swallowing, an acidic taste, burning tongue, hoarseness, and sometimes a pain in the chest that can be confused with a heart attack. Remineralization of weakened tooth structure should begin at the first sign of decalcification. Relief of gastric symptoms may begin with eating smaller meals and waiting 3 to 4 hours after eating before going to bed. Certain foods (coffee, chocolate, alcohol, whole- milk dairy foods, spicy foods, citric acids, garlic, onions, and tomatoes) can be avoided to help control this condition. When lifestyle changes do not help, over-the-counter medications might be needed, such as antacids, which contain magnesium, calcium, and aluminum. Prescription items can include an H2 (acid) blocker or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which inhibit acid production in the stomach. Antacid use can reduce the effectiveness of many drugs (Cipro, Inderal, Capoten, tetracycline, H2 blockers) by delaying their absorption. These medications should be taken 1 hour before or 3 hours after taking the antacid. Long-term use of any antacid increases the risk of kidney stones. Untreated GERD can lead to a condition known as Barrett’s esophagus, a precursor to esophageal cancer.
(Source: Modern Hygienist, May 2007)
