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Brunch has become something of a weekend essential in recent years. As more and more people are sharing snapshots of bottomless brunches on their social media feeds, dentists are warning of the dangers of drawn-out, all-day, all-you-can-eat weekend meals.
There’s no doubt that going out for brunch with friends or family is a great way to unwind at the weekend, but dentists are encouraging people to take note of the potential implications of drinking acidic drinks and eating sugary foods over a prolonged period of time. The concept of bottomless brunches urges you to drink and eat as much you want while taking your time. Although this may sound ideal, the rising popularity of the languid brunch isn’t good news for your teeth.
Experts have warned that lengthy meals have a negative impact on your oral health. This is because drinks like prosecco and brunch-friendly cocktails are acidic and eating over a period of time prolongs the length of acid attacks. When you eat, the bacteria in your mouth feed, and this prompts them to release acids, which weaken your tooth enamel. It takes around an hour for the enamel to harden again. If you’re grazing during the day, there is no opportunity for remineralisation to take place and the teeth will become susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Dentists have also seen an increase in cases of reflux, which contributes to enamel erosion caused by stomach acids.
Acid erosion is a problem that cannot be reversed, but it can be prevented by taking good care of your teeth and gums and avoiding eating and drinking sugary and acidic drinks between meals.
Dentists aren’t saying that you can never go out for brunch, but they are advising people to view indulgent, drawn-out meals and alcoholic breakfasts and lunches as a treat to be enjoyed once in a while rather than every weekend.