Supplements are often viewed as a simple way to boost overall health, but some may come with unexpected side effects—particularly when it comes to dental health. According to multiple studies and dental experts, certain popular vitamins and supplements can actually contribute to enamel erosion and long-term tooth damage if consumed in the wrong form.
Here are three supplements to approach with caution:
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1. Chewable Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for immune support and tissue repair, but the chewable form is especially harsh on teeth. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that patients who chewed vitamin C tablets daily over several years developed significant enamel erosion due to the high acidity of ascorbic acid (PubMed).
Another 2024 study measured the acidity of popular chewable vitamin products and found pH levels ranging from 2.99 to 4.77—well below the critical threshold of 5.5, at which enamel begins to demineralize (PubMed; PMC). Vitamin C-only tablets were found to be the most erosive.
2. Multivitamin Gummies
The colorful gummies many adults and kids enjoy can actually pose a double threat: sugar and citric acid. According to the British Dental Association, gummy vitamins often fall below the safe pH threshold, creating a perfect storm for enamel erosion (Personal Care Dentistry).
Even casual users have noticed the effects. In one Reddit discussion, a poster shared that their multivitamin gummies consistently caused tooth pain after use—highlighting that this isn’t just a theoretical risk but a real-world problem for some consumers.
3. Frequent Acidic Supplements
Even supplements that seem harmless can damage teeth when they repeatedly lower saliva pH. A study published in Caries Research found that chewable supplements promote an acidic oral environment that weakens enamel and increases the risk of cavities and sensitivity (PubMed).
This means that while the active ingredients may be safe for the body, the way they’re delivered—especially in acidic chewable or effervescent forms—can harm teeth over time.
Safer Swaps to Protect Your Smile
Experts recommend a few simple changes if you want the benefits of supplements without the dental downsides:
- Choose capsules or powders instead of chewable tablets.
- Opt for sugar-free or pH-neutral formulas when available.
- Rinse with water or chew sugar-free gum after taking acidic supplements to help restore normal pH and protect enamel.
Chewable vitamin C tablets, gummy multivitamins, and other acidic supplements may seem harmless, but repeated exposure can weaken enamel and raise the risk of long-term dental issues. Swapping to less erosive forms and practicing simple protective steps can keep both your body and your smile healthier.
