Tooth Erosion Causes, Treatment and Prevention

Tooth erosion is the loss of tooth structure and is caused by acid attacking the enamel. Tooth erosion signs and symptoms can range from sensitivity to more severe problems such as cracking. Tooth erosion is more common than people might think, but it can also be easily prevented.

Tooth erosion is the wearing away of tooth enamel by acid. The enamel is the hard calcified tissue that covers and protects the outside of the tooth. It is the hardest substance in our bodies.

The saliva in our mouth contains calcium which helps to strengthen and remineralize the teeth, however, remineralization can not occur when a great deal of acid is present.

The high amount of acids in the food and drink that you consume can cause tooth erosion. Soft drinks and pure fruit juices contain a high amount of acid.

Tooth erosion can also be caused by medical factors such as a decrease in saliva, acid reflux disease, certain gastrointestinal conditions and the eating disorder bulimia.

Tooth Erosion Causes:

There are several types of erosion that can affect the tooth. Knowing which one is causing your erosion can help us find an appropriate treatment. The four types of tooth erosion include:

• Attrition: Otherwise known as grinding. The friction between your teeth erodes natural enamel and exposes the tooth.
• Abrasion: This is caused from brushing too hard, or improper use of your teeth (i.e. biting nails, chewing on unnatural objects, etc.)
• Abfraction: This is when you chip, break, or flex the tooth
• Corrosion: This is caused by acidic foods or drinks, vomiting, acid reflux disease, and certain medications.

Other causes for enamel erosion are:

• Dry mouth
• Acid reflux disease
• External factors (stress, personal dental hygiene)
• Genetics

These causes may be more difficult to treat, but knowing the cause of your tooth erosion can help our cosmetic dentists pinpoint the problem and treat the issue.

Tooth Erosion Treatment:

Reducing the probability for dental erosion to acquire start with the improvement of fine dental hygiene behavior. Brushing the teeth after eating is essential to get rid of additional acids from the tooth enamel. Flossing frequently are going to take away acid deposits that will become stuck between teeth. Your dental professional will help you make educated choices regarding the kind of toothbrush which is good for your needs and suggest the kind of toothpaste, floss and also mouth rinse that is going to meet your needs. Remedy for dental erosion is determined by the brutality of the deterioration. In the event that the lack of tooth enamel is reasonable without impacting the patient’s physical appearance, there is no requirement of restorative healing procedure. The dental surgeon might suggest some fluoride remedies and desensitizing toothpastes to manage the tooth tenderness a result of teeth erosion. Improving the remineralization method by supplying mineral for example fluoride might be sufficient for organic tooth enamel recovery. The dental surgeon may additionally use a topical fluoride on the impacted enamel for extra defense and restoration of tooth enamel. Regenerative cosmetic solutions develop into required in case the tooth enamel deterioration is substantial.

5 Top tips to prevent Tooth Erosion and Save Money from Expensive Dental Visits:

The most common cause of enamel erosion is acid. Acid is common in many foods and drinks. Recognizing where acid is found is imperative to slowing down the erosion process. Acid is found in foods like:

• Soda/carbonated drinks
• Citrus fruits and juices
• Sugar/starch filled foods

You don’t have to eliminate these foods to prevent harmful enamel erosion, but you can change how you consume them. Sipping carbonated drinks/sodas or juices through a straw can help eradicate contact of the acids to the teeth. Also making sure you immediately swallow instead of holding drinks in your mouth can reduce contact as well. The best course of action is to consume acid-filled products in moderation. If erosion is caused from teeth grinding, we would suggest a fitting for a mouth guard to protect your teeth while you sleep. This doesn’t cease the grinding, but protects your teeth and enamel while you clench your jaw in your sleep.