Magnesium citrate is commonly taken as a dietary supplement for magnesium deficiency or as a fast-acting saline laxative. However, this common supplement introduces a specific concern regarding dental wellness. The issue is not the mineral itself, but the acidic chemical environment created during consumption. This article addresses the properties of the supplement that risk dental enamel and offers practical protection methods.
What Magnesium Citrate Is
Magnesium citrate is a salt formed when magnesium is chemically bound to citric acid. This combination is favored in supplements because it is readily absorbed, offering a bioavailable source of the mineral magnesium. The compound is sold in powder, liquid, or capsule form. Its main applications are supporting muscle and nerve function and relieving occasional constipation by drawing water into the intestines.
The Role of Citric Acid and Low pH
The dental concern stems not from the magnesium, but from the citrate portion of the compound, which is derived from citric acid. Citric acid is a common food additive and flavoring agent known for its acidic nature, and it gives many magnesium citrate solutions their sour taste. When the supplement is dissolved, the resulting liquid can exhibit a low pH, sometimes 4.0 or lower.
The pH scale measures acidity, with 7.0 being neutral. Tooth enamel begins to dissolve (demineralize) when the pH in the mouth drops below 5.5. Consuming liquid magnesium citrate can create an environment acidic enough to challenge the integrity of the enamel surface. The duration the acidic solution contacts the teeth directly influences the risk level.
Specific Dental Damage: Enamel Erosion
Prolonged or frequent exposure to low pH substances initiates dental erosion. This is the chemical dissolution of the tooth’s surface, which is distinct from physical wear or decay caused by bacteria. As the acid directly attacks the enamel, it softens the outer layer, gradually stripping away the minerals that provide the tooth’s structure and protection.
Once erosion occurs, the damage is permanent because the body cannot regenerate this protective tissue. Weakened enamel leads to increased tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold stimuli, as the underlying dentin becomes exposed. Thinning enamel may also cause a yellowish discoloration because the dentin’s natural color shows through the translucent outer layer. This damage makes the teeth more vulnerable to cavities and fractures.
Practical Steps to Minimize Risk
Individuals who regularly take magnesium citrate should follow several strategies to protect tooth enamel from acid exposure. The primary goal is to reduce the duration of contact between the acidic solution and the teeth.
- Drink the liquid formulation quickly, rather than sipping it over a long period, to limit enamel exposure to the low pH environment.
- Use a straw to allow the liquid to bypass the front surfaces of the teeth and be directed toward the back of the mouth.
- Immediately after consumption, rinse the mouth with plain water to wash away residual acid and help restore a neutral pH balance.
- Rinsing with milk or consuming a small piece of cheese can help neutralize the acid due to their calcium content.
- Avoid brushing teeth for at least 30 to 60 minutes after taking the supplement, as the acid temporarily softens the enamel, making it vulnerable to abrasive action.