Q: What Is GERD?

By Dr. Cheryl Bresnahan

Severe tooth erosion caused by endogenous acid in a patient with GERD.

Copyright 2012 Sarbin Ranjitkar et al.
Source: Int J Dent. 2012; 2012: 479850

Acid reflux, commonly called GERD or gastro-esophageal reflux disorder, is a concern to dentistry because it destroys or dissolves the tooth structure away.

Fully 40% of Americans have GERD, and of that number 40% of them don’t even know that they have it.

Why Does GERD Occur?

Stomach acid has a pH of 1.5 – 3.5 which is highly acidic. This strong acid creates a very characteristic pattern of tooth wear easily identified by a dentist. Interestingly, dentists are often the first person to diagnose GERD.

Will It Harm My Teeth?

If GERD is left untreated, it can cause extreme tooth wear leading to extensive dental needs. More importantly, the esophagus does not like the chronic exposure of this strong acid and causes Barret’s esophagus or esophageal cancer.

Can I Prevent GERD by Changing My Diet?

Foods to Help Reduce GERD

Beans	Cauliflower
Cauliflower	Celery
Chicken	Fish
Greens	Herbal Non-caffeinated Tea
Milk	Oatmeal
Pasta	Potato/Sweet Potato
Raisins	Rice
Turkey	Vegetables

Food to Avoid

Alcoholic Beverages	Avocado
Butter	Caffeine
Caffeinated Tea	Carbonated Drinks
Chili	Chocolate
Cinnamon	Citrus
Dill	Garlic
Greasy Foods/Spicy Foods	Ketchup
Low Ph Level Foods	Mint
Mustard	Nuts
Onion	Orange Juice
Pepper	Peppermint
Pizza	Spearmint
Tomato	Vinegar

Can I Do Anything Else to Prevent GERD?

While monitoring or changing your diet is an important start, you can also try chewing gum, making sure not to overeat and not eating too fast.

Dr. Cheryl Bresnahan is a licensed dentist and the founder of Dental Perfections in Whitewater, WI. If you'd like to ask her a question, please visit the Ask Dr. Cheryl section of our Web site.