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Enamel erosion: causes, prevention and treatment

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Tooth enamel is the hard outer layer of your tooth that protects the sensitive dentine underneath. Enamel is tough, in fact, it’s the hardest mineral in the human body, but it can erode over time for many different reasons. If you know the signs and symptoms of enamel erosion, you can seek treatment and possibly prevent it from occurring in the future.

When it comes to teeth, what is erosion?

Enamel erosion is the damage or softening of the surface of your teeth due to the acids you eat or drink, or the acids that come up from your stomach. These acids can eat away at or soften your tooth enamel and make it easier for it to be worn away by abrasion or teeth grinding.

Causes of enamel erosion

Tooth enamel erosion can be caused by several factors, one being the acids found in the food and drinks you consume. Saliva helps to neutralise these acids, but if you consume too much acidic food and drink and don’t follow a good oral hygiene routine, your tooth enamel will erode over time.

Some foods that can contribute to enamel erosion are:

  • Sugary foods such as sweets, ice cream and syrups

  • Starchy foods such as white bread and potatoes

  • Acidic foods such as citrus fruits, berries and apples

  • Fruit juices, fizzy and alcoholic drinks

Other causes of tooth enamel erosion include:

  • Teeth grinding – this can wear down enamel over time

  • Acid reflux – can cause acids from your stomach to enter your mouth

  • Low salivary flow or dry mouth – can be a symptom of some medical conditions including diabetes

  • Regular use of medications including antihistamines and aspirin

  • Vomiting exposes your teeth to stomach acids

Symptoms of damaged tooth enamel

You can sometimes see that tooth enamel is damaged, however, you’re more likely to notice the symptoms in the form of tooth pain or sensitivity first. Some other symptoms of enamel erosion can include:

  • Discolouration or yellowing of the teeth

  • Transparent edges, especially around the front teeth

  • Small cracks or dents on the surface of the tooth

  • An odd, rounded appearance

  • A rough appearance on the tooth’s surface

How to treat tooth enamel erosion

If you’re experiencing tooth enamel erosion, visit your dentist who can help you to determine the cause of the acid and advise the things to avoid. If your dental erosion is due to a medical condition such as acid reflux, you can discuss potential treatment options with your dentist.

If erosion isn’t treated, it can damage the structure of your tooth and cause you a lot of discomfort. Unfortunately, tooth enamel can’t grow back, however, your dentist may recommend a range of solutions to repair the tooth including:

  • Veneers

  • Fillings

  • Crowns

  • Root canal

  • Tooth extraction

  • Applying a fluoride varnish to strengthen the remaining enamel

How to prevent tooth enamel erosion

There are several things you can do to help reduce enamel erosion and the effect it can have on your teeth. Using a toothpaste that has been specially formulated to remineralise your tooth enamel and protect against erosion can help – for example, elmex Opti-Enamel Sealant and Strengthening Toothpaste.

Some other things you can do to prevent further enamel erosion include:

  • Limit your consumption of acidic food and drinks – try to eat these things at meal times instead of continuously snacking through the day.

  • Finish meals with cheese or milk to help to neutralise the acids in your mouth.

  • Chew sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva production.

  • Drink mostly non-acidic drinks including water, milk or very diluted sugar-free squash.

  • Drink through a straw and don’t swish drinks around your mouth.

  • When it comes to snacking, stick to veggies, nuts or cheese.

  • Wait for an hour after eating something acidic before brushing your teeth – brushing straight after can cause more damage to your teeth.

The best way to treat tooth enamel erosion is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Always practice a good oral hygiene routine and see your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleaning.

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This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.