Dental Erosion: A Silent Threat to Your Teeth
Dental erosion, often referred to as “acid erosion,” is a condition where the hard enamel of your teeth is gradually worn away by acids. Unlike tooth decay, which is caused by bacteria, dental erosion is primarily due to the chemical breakdown of enamel. While it may not be as immediately noticeable as cavities, the long-term consequences can be severe.
Symptoms
Dental erosion can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Sensitivity: Teeth may become sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Smooth, shiny teeth: The surface of the teeth may appear smoother and shinier than usual.
- Thinning enamel: In advanced cases, the enamel may become so thin that the underlying dentin is visible.
- Cracked or chipped teeth: The weakened enamel can make teeth more susceptible to fractures.
- Yellowing: The dentin beneath the enamel is naturally yellow, so as the enamel wears away, teeth may appear more yellow.
Complications
If left untreated, dental erosion can lead to more severe problems, such as:
- Pain: As the erosion progresses, sensitivity can increase, leading to pain and discomfort.
- Tooth decay: The weakened enamel makes teeth more vulnerable to cavities.
- Tooth loss: In severe cases, erosion can lead to tooth loss.
- Gum recession: The loss of enamel can lead to gum recession and expose the root of the tooth.
- Aesthetics: It doesn’t look very nice and can affect the appearance of your smile.
Causes
Several factors can contribute to erosion, including:
- Acidic foods and drinks: Soft drinks, fruit juices, sports drinks, coffee, tea, and even wine can contribute to dental erosion.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Acid reflux can cause stomach acid to flow back up into the esophagus and onto the teeth.
- Bulimia nervosa: Frequent vomiting in people with bulimia can expose teeth to stomach acid.
- Medication: Some medications, such as certain antidepressants and antihistamines, can reduce saliva flow, which can contribute to dental erosion.
- Dry mouth: A dry mouth can make teeth more susceptible to acid damage.
When to See a Dentist
If you notice any of the symptoms of dental erosion, it’s important to see a dentist for an evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and complications.
Treatments for Dental Erosion
Fortunately, there are several effective strategies for treating dental erosion. These include dietary changes to reduce acid exposure, professional fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel, restorative procedures to repair damaged teeth, and the use of saliva substitutes to combat a dry mouth.
- Dietary changes: Reducing the consumption of acidic foods and drinks can help prevent further erosion.
- Fluoride treatments: Fluoride can help strengthen the enamel and protect teeth from acid damage.
- Dental restorations: In severe cases, dental restorations, such as fillings or crowns, may be necessary to repair damaged teeth.
- Saliva substitutes: If dry mouth is a contributing factor, saliva substitutes can help protect teeth from acid damage.
Prevention of Dental Erosion
Here are some strategies to help prevent acid from damaging your teeth.
- Limit acidic beverages: Drink water or milk instead of acidic beverages. If you do drink acidic beverages, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- Use a Straw: Drinking acidic beverages with a straw can help minimise contact with your teeth.
- Avoid brushing immediately after eating or drinking: Brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks can further damage the enamel. Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.
- Chew sugarless gum: Chewing sugarless gum can help stimulate saliva flow, which can neutralize acids in the mouth.
- See your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups can help detect erosion early and prevent complications.
By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of dental erosion, you can take steps to protect your teeth and maintain a healthy smile.
Herald Ave Dental in Willetton
If you are experiencing any symptoms of dental erosion or tooth pain, make an appointment by booking online or contacting us.
