20 Facts About Tooth Erosion

Acidic food and drinks can wear away the surface of teeth. This is known as tooth erosion. It is becoming more prevalent because of fruit juices and carbonated beverages. We want to provide you with facts about the causes, symptoms and prevention of tooth erosion.

1. Each tooth is protected by enamel, a thin layer of hard tissue that helps maintain structure and shape.
2. Enamel is kind of like the shell of an egg: it protects the softer, more vulnerable part of the tooth inside.
3. Enamel is the hardest substance in the body. It can withstand decades of biting, chewing and crunching with good dental care.
4. Acids from foods and bacteria can eat away at enamel, causing erosion and cavities.
5. When tooth enamel is damaged, the exposed part underneath becomes vulnerable to decay.
6. Saliva naturally neutralizes acids in the mouth that erode teeth. It also resupplies minerals to strengthen tooth enamel.
7. If acid is in the mouth too often, teeth cannot repair themselves and the enamel becomes thinner.
8. The teeth can then become extra sensitive to hot and cold food and drink.
9. Carbonated beverages (including diet), fruit juices and wine contain acids that harm teeth.
10. Acidic foods include fruit, candy, pickles, yogurt and honey.
11. Other sources of dangerous acids are some drugs, supplements, acid reflux, heartburn, frequent vomiting (from bulimia, alcoholism, or binge drinking).
12. If you have a dry mouth — caused by a medication side effect or a health condition — the acids stick around longer, causing greater damage.
13. Some acids found in sodas, juices, and drinks are more corrosive than battery acid.
14. Sensitivity, discoloration, rounded teeth, transparency and cracks are all symptoms of tooth erosion.
15. Erosion is found initially in the enamel and, if unchecked, may proceed to the underlying dentin.
16. It’s best to consume acidic beverages only at mealtime and with a straw.
17. To neutralize acids, you can drink milk or eat cheese at the end of a meal.
18. To strengthen enamel, use a remineralizing agent, such as sodium fluoride solution in the form of a fluoride mouth rinse, tablet, or lozenge, immediately before brushing teeth.
19. Dentine bonding agents applied to areas of exposed dentin can protect from further damage.
20. Chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol after eating will stimulate your saliva production is another way to counteract the effects of acids.

If you have any concerns that tooth erosion may be affecting you or your children, please do not hesitate call us. (417) 777-8654

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