Dental Erosion: Understanding and Protecting Your Teeth from Acidic Damage
The enamel is the hard outer shell of your teeth. Our tooth enamel is constantly under attack and wearing down as we age, primarily because of acids in the foods and drinks we consume. Contrary to what you may have seen in a silly YouTube ad, tooth enamel cannot grow back. It’s not made from living cells. However, your dentist can catch the problem early at regular checkups, and there are steps you can take to prevent dental erosion from worsening.
Symptoms of Dental Erosion
Strong enamel is one of the factors that keep your teeth looking white. If you notice any discoloration, it could be an early sign of dental erosion. You might also see a difference in the sensitivity of your teeth when you have hot or cold drinks. Small chips and cracks in the surface of the teeth can be a sign that enamel erosion is underway. As the problem progresses, a person may feel pain and increased tooth sensitivity, and the discoloration worsens.
Once dental erosion reaches the more extreme stages, a person might experience the following:
- Yellow staining on the teeth
- Extreme tooth sensitivity
- Increased cavities
- Rough edges on the teeth
- Shiny spots on the teeth
- Broken or fractured teeth
Causes of Dental Erosion
Several different things can cause dental erosion, but numerous research studies have shown that acidic foods in the human diet are the main culprits. Acids in many foods and drinks attack the enamel on our teeth, while the saliva in our mouths neutralizes the acids. If you consume too many acidic foods or drinks and also fail to brush your teeth regularly, the acids can overwhelm this natural balancing act.
Some of the most acidic foods that can damage your teeth and oral health include the following:
- Apples, citrus fruits, berries, and other acidic fruits
- Fruit drinks and juices
- Sodas, which are loaded with sugar, phosphoric acid, and citric acid
- Excess vitamin C from fruits
- Starchy foods such as white bread
- Sugary foods and snacks like ice cream and candy
We are not suggesting that you entirely avoid these foods and drinks. Fruits are very healthy for you, and who doesn’t like a little ice cream occasionally? Dental erosion is not instantaneous; eating an apple won’t hurt your teeth. However, the combination of consuming these foods and drinks and not brushing your teeth causes the problem gradually over time.
Acidic foods and drinks are not the only things that can damage the enamel. Grinding your teeth can also wear out the enamel more quickly than normal. Diabetes and other conditions can lead to lower saliva flow, reducing the natural process of neutralizing acids. Certain medications, eating disorders, chronic acid reflux, and some genetic disorders can also cause the enamel to wear out more quickly. Dr. Hebert will determine the cause of your dental erosion to determine the best ways to prevent it from advancing.
Treating and Preventing Dental Erosion
A good oral hygiene routine is the best defense against dental erosion. Regular tooth brushing, especially before bed, prevents food acids from staying on your teeth, which can slowly erode the enamel. Flossing is essential, too. Bits of food stuck between the teeth will remain there, gathering bacteria and attacking the integrity of the enamel.
When it comes to acidic drinks, using a straw can prevent some of the liquids from touching the surface of your teeth. Rinsing your mouth with water after drinking or eating acid can also help.
When dental erosion has caused damage or staining to your teeth, there are several ways that your dentist can treat it. Dental bonding with a tooth-colored resin can hide staining and protect an affected tooth. In more severe cases, dental veneers or a crown may be necessary to protect a tooth.
If you’re experiencing increased tooth sensitivity or staining, it could be dental erosion. Contact us at Hebert Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment!