At what pH level does tooth enamel begin to demineralize?

Tooth enamel begins to demineralize at a pH level of 5.5. This critical threshold indicates the point at which the environment becomes acidic enough to start dissolving the minerals in the tooth enamel, primarily hydroxyapatite. When the pH drops below this level, acids produced by bacteria feeding on sugars can lead to the gradual loss of the mineral components of enamel, thereby increasing the risk of cavities and decay. Maintaining a pH above this threshold is vital for oral health, as it helps protect the integrity of tooth enamel against the damaging effects of acid exposure.