Why Apple Cider Vinegar is Bad For Your Teeth
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is often promoted online as a natural remedy for a wide range of health concerns. In recent years, it has also been suggested as a DIY method for cleaning or whitening teeth. However, despite its popularity, using apple cider vinegar on teeth is not supported by dental scientific evidence and can also cause more long-term damage than benefits.
At Whitehorse Dental, we frequently see the effects of acid-related enamel damage, and what many don’t know is that it can be seen in their enamel. For us, we want our patients to understand how apple cider vinegar interacts with teeth and how it is essential before considering it as part of any oral care routine.
Apple Cider Vinegar, Acidity, and Enamel Erosion
Apple cider vinegar, in nature, is highly acidic. How do we know about that? By going through a pH scale.
The pH scale is used to measure how acidic or alkaline a substance is, ranging from 0 to 14. A pH of 7 is considered neutral (like water), numbers below 7 are acidic, and numbers above 7 are alkaline.
Stomach acid sits at around pH 1, while apple cider vinegar typically falls between pH 2.5 and 3.5, placing it firmly in the acidic range.
What people need to know is that tooth enamel begins to demineralise at a pH of approximately 5.5. And when teeth are exposed to acids below this threshold, minerals are drawn out of the enamel surface. Repeated exposure prevents the enamel from recovering and increases the risk of permanent erosion.
When apple cider vinegar is applied directly to teeth, whether brushed on, used as a rinse, or consumed frequently without dilution, it creates an acidic environment that accelerates enamel loss.
Can Apple Cider Vinegar Whiten Teeth?
Despite online claims, apple cider vinegar does not whiten teeth safely or effectively.
While the acid may temporarily remove surface stains, this effect occurs by eroding the enamel, not by improving tooth colour. As enamel thins, the yellow dentine underneath becomes more visible, which can actually make teeth appear darker over time.
In fact, abrasive or acidic whitening methods increase the risk of sensitivity and enamel damage without providing predictable or lasting whitening results. That is why, as dentists, we don’t recommend our patients use apple cider vinegar when they plan on whitening their teeth.
Acid Exposure and Frequency Matter
It is not only the acidity of apple cider vinegar that poses a risk, but also how often teeth are exposed to acid.
This research shows that frequent acid exposure is more damaging than the total amount consumed. Sipping acidic liquids, using acidic rinses, or brushing with acidic substances repeatedly throughout the day prevents saliva from neutralising the mouth’s pH and repairing early enamel changes.
This means that even small amounts of apple cider vinegar used regularly can contribute to cumulative enamel erosion over time.
Why Enamel Erosion Is a Serious Problem
Enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth. It plays a crucial role in shielding teeth from temperature changes, bacteria, and daily wear. That’s why it’s important to look after it as well.
The bad news about it is that enamel does not regenerate once it has been lost. As enamel thins, teeth may become:
- More sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- More prone to cavities
- Visibly dull or yellow as the underlying dentine becomes exposed
In severe cases, enamel erosion can lead to structural damage that requires restorative dental treatment.
How to Protect Your Enamel and Keep Teeth Clean
Maintaining clean, healthy teeth does not require acidic or abrasive home remedies. Evidence-based oral hygiene practices remain the safest and most effective approach.
To support enamel health:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes
- Drink water between meals
- Wait at least 30 minutes after eating or drinking acidic foods before brushing
Using fluoridated toothpaste when brushing teeth helps support enamel health for the better. Because enamel cannot regenerate once it erodes, fluoride works by remineralising weakened enamel, helping to replace minerals that are lost when teeth are exposed to acids from food, drinks, or gastric acid. It also makes enamel more resistant to future acid attacks, reducing the risk of erosion and decay.
In addition, fluoride toothpaste helps slow down the activity of decay-causing bacteria in the mouth, which further supports enamel health. That’s why regular use of fluoride toothpaste is considered a key preventive measure for maintaining strong, healthy teeth, particularly for people exposed to frequent acid challenges.
Safe and Effective Ways to Whiten Teeth
If you are looking to improve the colour of your teeth, professional teeth whitening is the safest and most predictable option.
Dentist-supervised whitening treatments are designed to lighten teeth while minimising the risk of enamel damage and sensitivity.
Professional whitening allows:
- Controlled use of whitening agents
- Protection of gums and soft tissues
- Assessment of suitability before treatment
- Tailored options based on individual dental health
Unlike DIY methods, professional whitening does not rely on acid erosion to achieve results.
Looking After Your Smile the Safe Way
Natural remedies are often appealing, but not all are safe for teeth. Apple cider vinegar may have uses in cooking and is said to have many health benefits, but it does not belong in an oral care routine. Protecting your enamel is essential for long-term dental health, comfort, and appearance.
If you are considering teeth whitening or are concerned about enamel wear or sensitivity, a professional assessment is the safest place to start. The team at Whitehorse Dental can help determine the most appropriate whitening option for your smile and provide guidance on protecting your enamel long term.
Consult our team today for a guided teeth whitening appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is apple cider vinegar safe to use on teeth?
No. Apple cider vinegar is highly acidic and can damage tooth enamel when applied directly to teeth or used frequently. Dental evidences show that repeated acid exposure increases the risk of permanent enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity.
Can apple cider vinegar whiten teeth?
Apple cider vinegar does not whiten teeth safely. While it may remove surface stains temporarily, it does so by eroding enamel rather than improving tooth colour. Over time, this can make teeth appear more yellow as the underlying dentine becomes exposed.
How does acidity damage tooth enamel?
Tooth enamel begins to weaken when exposed to acids below a pH of 5.5. Apple cider vinegar has a much lower pH, meaning it can draw minerals out of enamel. Repeated exposure prevents enamel from recovering and increases the risk of irreversible damage.
Does diluting apple cider vinegar make it safer for teeth?
Diluting apple cider vinegar may reduce its acidity, but it does not eliminate the risk. Regular exposure to acidic substances, even in diluted form, can still contribute to enamel erosion over time.
Why doesn’t enamel grow back once it’s damaged?
Enamel does not regenerate because it does not contain living cells. Once it is worn away, it cannot repair itself, which is why protecting enamel early is essential for long-term dental health. The only way to keep it healthy is to have a good oral routine by brushing teeth with fluoridated toothpaste.
How does fluoride toothpaste help protect enamel?
Fluoride helps remineralise weakened enamel by replacing minerals lost during acid exposure. It also strengthens enamel, making it more resistant to future acid attacks and reducing the risk of tooth decay.
What is the safest way to whiten teeth?
Professional teeth whitening supervised by a dentist is considered the safest option. It allows for controlled use of whitening agents, protection of the gums, and assessment of whether whitening is suitable for your teeth.
What should I do if I’m worried about enamel erosion or sensitivity?
If you notice increased tooth sensitivity, colour changes, or signs of enamel wear, a dental assessment is recommended. Early advice can help prevent further damage and guide safe treatment options.
