Dental erosion is a type of tooth damage that occurs when acids wear away enamel, the hard outer surface of the tooth. This is a common issue that can affect people of all ages but is particularly prevalent in children and young adults. Dental erosion is differentiated from tooth decay by the source of the acid; with tooth decay, the acid is produced by oral bacteria, while dental erosion is due to acid from other sources.
What Causes Dental Erosion?
There are many different factors that can contribute to dental erosion. Some of the most
common causes include:
- Consuming acidic foods and drinks: Many common beverages, such as soda and sports drinks, as well as some types of fruit, contain high levels of acid. These substances can soften and weaken the enamel, making it more prone to erosion.
- Dry mouth: Saliva helps to neutralize acids in the mouth and protect the teeth from erosion. When the mouth is dry, there is less saliva to help neutralize acids, which can increase the risk of erosion.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This condition causes stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus and mouth, which can lead to erosion of the teeth.
- Vomiting or bulimia: These behaviors expose the teeth to stomach acid, which can cause erosion. What are the Symptoms of Dental Erosion? The symptoms of dental erosion can vary depending on the severity of the damage. Some
common signs include:
- Sensitivity to cold or hot beverages or foods
- Yellowing or discoloration of the teeth
- Visible pits or holes in the teeth
- Thin, transparent edges on the front teeth
- Worn or flattened biting surfaces on the back teeth
What treatments are available for Dental Erosion?
Treatment for dental erosion depends on the severity of the damage. In mild cases, your dentist may recommend using a toothpaste with fluoride to strengthen the enamel and protect the teeth. They may also suggest using a mouthwash or rinse to help neutralize acids in the mouth. If the erosion is more advanced, your dentist may recommend a dental restoration, such as a filling or crown, to repair the damage. In severe cases, the damaged tooth may need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant or bridge.
What are the effects of leaving Dental Erosion untreated? If dental erosion is left untreated, it can lead to a number of serious problems. The damaged enamel can make the teeth more prone to cavities and infections, and the teeth may become more sensitive to temperature and pressure changes. In severe cases, the teeth may become so damaged that they need to be extracted. In addition, dental erosion can also affect the appearance of the teeth, making them look yellow or worn.
How can Dental Erosion be prevented?
Prevention of dental erosion typically involves reducing tooth enamel’s exposure to acid.
Consider the following tips:
- Avoid acidic foods and beverages, particularly between meals. When drinking acidic
beverages, consider using a straw to help minimize acid exposure. - Don’t brush your teeth immediately after consuming acidic food, as can actually accelerate
dental erosion. Instead, drink water and use it to rinse your mouth after an acidic meal. Allow a
little time to pass before brushing. - Make sure you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush, as harder bristles and aggressive brushing
can also cause tooth enamel to wear down (known as dental abrasion). - As saliva can help protect teeth from acid damage, chewing sugar-free gum can help, as it
promotes salivary flow. - Milk can help neutralize acids, and can be included in meals that include acidic foods.
