What Is Dental Erosion?
Posted on 7/1/2025 by Singing River Dentistry - Florence |
 Have you noticed your teeth looking shorter or more sensitive lately? You might be experiencing dental erosion.
Dental erosion is the gradual loss of tooth enamel caused by the repeated exposure to acid. Unlike cavities, which are caused by bacteria, erosion is caused by the direct effect of acid on the tooth surface.
This article will delve into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for dental erosion. We'll also provide some helpful tips on how to prevent this condition from affecting your smile.
What Causes Dental Erosion?
Several factors can contribute to dental erosion, including:
| • |
Acidic foods and drinks: Citrus fruits, sodas, sports drinks, and energy drinks are all highly acidic and can erode tooth enamel over time. |
| • |
Acid reflux: Stomach acid can sometimes travel up the esophagus and into the mouth, where it can damage tooth enamel. |
| • |
Medications: Certain medications, such as aspirin and some cough syrups, can also be acidic and contribute to erosion. |
| • |
Dry mouth: Saliva helps neutralize acids in the mouth and protect tooth enamel. Dry mouth, which can be caused by medications, medical conditions, or dehydration, reduces the amount of saliva available to protect your teeth. |
| • |
Eating disorders: Bulimia, which involves purging food by vomiting, exposes teeth to large amounts of stomach acid, leading to severe erosion. |
What Are the Symptoms of Dental Erosion?
In the early stages, dental erosion may not be noticeable. However, as the condition progresses, you might experience symptoms such as:
| • |
Visible loss of tooth structure: Teeth may appear shorter or have a scalloped appearance. |
| • |
Increased tooth sensitivity: Teeth may become more sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. |
| • |
Discoloration: Teeth may appear yellow or brown as the dentin layer beneath the enamel becomes exposed. |
| • |
Chipped or fractured teeth: Eroded teeth are more susceptible to chipping and fracturing. |
How Is Dental Erosion Treated?
The treatment for dental erosion will depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, simply avoiding acidic foods and drinks and maintaining good oral hygiene may be enough to stop the erosion and allow the teeth to remineralize.
In more severe cases, your dentist may recommend restorative treatments such as:
| • |
Dental fillings: To fill in areas where tooth structure has been lost. |
| • |
Dental crowns: To cover and protect severely eroded teeth. |
| • |
Veneers: To improve the appearance of eroded teeth. |
How Can I Prevent Dental Erosion?
There are several things you can do to prevent dental erosion, including:
| • |
Limit your intake of acidic foods and drinks. |
| • |
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help neutralize acids in your mouth. |
| • |
Chew sugar-free gum after meals to stimulate saliva production. |
| • |
Use a straw when drinking acidic beverages. |
| • |
Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. |
| • |
See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. |
Conclusion
Dental erosion is a serious condition that can damage your teeth and lead to pain and sensitivity. However, with proper care and treatment, it can be prevented and managed. By following the tips above, you can keep your smile healthy and strong for years to come.
|
|
