The effect of some Mexican citric acid snacks on in vitro tooth enamel erosion.

E namel erosion is a process of dissolution of the tooth enamel surface dependent upon the pH of the bathing medium, and not due to intrinsic acid production in dental plaque. Pathologic erosion of the dental tissues caused by the consumption of acidic beverages, lemon juice, citric acid, or fruits has been described.i, 2 In South Texas, snacks or candies that contain citric acid, extract of jalapefio pepper, and/or sugar are imported from Mexico and sold in supermarkets and convenience stores in Hispanic barrios. These snacks are increasing in popularity, especially among children and adolescents. The aims of this study were to measure how much softening some of these snack products can cause to dental enamel in a standardized in vitro system, and to compare the effects of these products to each other and to the effects of milk and a carbonated beverage (Sprite TM, Coca Cola Co., Atlanta, GA).