If you’re like most people, you probably think of Tums as a quick and easy way to relieve heartburn or indigestion. But did you know that Tums can also be bad for your teeth?
That’s right – Tums can actually lead to tooth decay if you’re not careful. The reason is that Tums contain a lot of sugar, and when that sugar comes into contact with your teeth, it can cause cavities.
So if you’re going to take Tums, be sure to brush your teeth afterwards. And if you’re looking for a healthier way to relieve heartburn or indigestion, try taking a probiotic supplement instead.
Introduction
Tums is a popular antacid medication that is taken to treat heartburn, indigestion and other stomach related issues. The main ingredient in Tums is calcium carbonate, which is also found in many types of toothpaste. While Tums can be effective at relieving stomach distress, there is some concern that it may also damage your teeth.
What are Tums?
Tums is the brand name for a variety of antacids that are used to relieve symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, or an upset stomach. The active ingredient in Tums is calcium carbonate, which works by neutralizing stomach acids. Tums come in a variety of forms, including chewable tablets, gum, and liquids.
The Risks of Tums
While Tums are a popular remedy for heartburn and other gastrointestinal issues, recent research has shown that they may pose a risk to dental health. Tums contain calcium carbonate, which is an abrasive substance that can wear down tooth enamel over time. Additionally, the acid in Tums can contribute to tooth decay.
If you suffer from heartburn or other gastrointestinal issues, it is important to speak with your doctor or dentist about the best way to manage your symptoms. There are many other options available that will not put your dental health at risk.
The Dangers of Tums
While Tums are generally considered safe, there are some potential dangers associated with taking them. One of the active ingredients in Tums is calcium carbonate, which can actually lead to tooth enamel erosion over time. In addition, the sugar in Tums can promote the growth of bacteria in your mouth, which can cause cavities.
If you do choose to take Tums, be sure to brush your teeth afterwards to remove any residual calcium carbonate. You should also drink plenty of water to help flush away the sugar and prevent it from sticking to your teeth.
Tums and Your Teeth
While Tums are not bad for your teeth, we do not recommend using them to treat tooth pain. Tums are a medication that contains calcium carbonate, which is used to treat heartburn and indigestion by neutralizing stomach acid. However, because stomach acid is also important for healthy digestion, taking Tums long-term can actually make your digestive problems worse.
If you are experiencing tooth pain, we recommend visiting your dentist to find the underlying cause of the pain and address it accordingly. In some cases, tooth pain can be caused by an infection or abscess, which will require antibiotics or other treatment to resolve. Additionally, if you are grinding your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth from further damage.
Tums and Your Health
The active ingredient in Tums is calcium carbonate, which acts as a neutralizing agent to help relieve heartburn, sour stomach and indigestion. Tums are available over the counter in different forms, such as chewable tablets, effervescent tablets and liquid-filled capsules. While Tums are generally safe for most people to take occasionally, there are some potential side effects and risks associated with taking them.
Calcium carbonate is also found in antacids such as Rolaids and others. When used as directed, Tums are not harmful to teeth. In fact, because calcium is a mineral that strengthens teeth and bones, taking Tums can actually be good for your teeth. However, because Tums are sweetened with sugar, they can promote tooth decay if they are consumed in large quantities or too often. It’s important to brush your teeth after taking Tums or any other sweetened medication to remove the sugar from your teeth.
Although Tums are safe for most people to take occasionally, there are some potential side effects associated with taking them. These side effects include constipation, diarrhea, gas and bloating. If you experience any of these side effects after taking Tums, stop taking the medication and consult your doctor. You should also consult your doctor before taking Tums if you have kidney disease or are pregnant or breast-feeding.
The Bottom Line
Most people think of Tums as a harmless way to treat heartburn and indigestion. However, overusing Tums can actually damage your teeth. The main problem with Tums is that they are made of sugar and acid. When you chew Tums, the sugar dissolves and the acid is released. This combination can eat away at your tooth enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to cavities. It’s important to limit your use of Tums and always brush your teeth afterwards to minimize the damage.
Resources
There are conflicting opinions about whether or not tums are bad for your teeth. Some people say that tums can help to neutralize acidic foods and drinks, which can help to protect your teeth from cavities. However, other people say that tums can actually be acidic and can contribute to tooth decay.
If you are concerned about whether or not tums are bad for your teeth, it is best to speak to your dentist. They will be able to give you the most accurate information based on your individual dental health.
