The Dangers of Tooth Enamel Erosion

At Caldwell Dental Care, a leading Orange County cosmetic dentistry practice, Drs. Ty and Susan Caldwell are committed to helping our patients maintain healthy smiles that last a lifetime. That is why we would like to take the time to discuss the dangers of tooth enamel erosion. Tooth enamel is the translucent outer covering of the tooth. This tough and durable tissue protects the teeth from daily wear. Unfortunately, tooth enamel can chip, crack, and erode, making the teeth sensitive to certain temperatures and chemicals.  In this blog post, we review the symptoms and causes of tooth enamel erosion, and also provide prevention tips for our patients.

Symptoms

The symptoms of tooth enamel erosion include:

• Tooth sensitivity and pain: Certain types of foods and foods that are hot or cold cause sensitivity in the early stages of enamel erosion. This can progress to severe pain as the enamel continues to erode.
• Transparency: In the beginning stages of tooth enamel erosion, the edges of the teeth look more transparent.
• Rounded Teeth: The teeth take on a rounded and shiny appearance in the early stages of tooth enamel erosion.
• Discoloration: The teeth look more yellowed and discolored when the tooth enamel wears down.
• Tooth cracks and chips: The edges of the teeth become irregular and notched as the enamel wears down.
• Indentations: Indentations, also known as cupping, form on the surface of the teeth.

Causes

Tooth enamel erodes when acids destroy the protective tissue. High levels of acids can be introduced or allowed to persist in the mouth as a result of:

• Consumption of sodas and fruit drinks
• Consumption of foods that are high in starches and sugars
• Dry mouth, which can be caused by certain medications
• Medical conditions such as acid reflux disease, gastrointestinal problems, and bulimia
• Use of tobacco products

Environmental factors can also lead to tooth enamel erosion. Environmental stresses include:

• Clenching and grinding of the teeth
• Brushing or flossing the teeth too aggressively
• Biting on hard objects such as fingernails or pens
• Chewing food

Prevention

Since tooth enamel does not contain any living cells, it cannot be naturally repaired or replaced by the body when it erodes. In addition, tooth enamel erosion makes the teeth more prone to tooth decay. That is why prevention of tooth enamel erosion is critical for our patients. The condition can be prevented with:

• Proper Oral Hygiene: Daily brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental visits.
• The Elimination of Acidic Foods and Drinks: Avoid consumption of soda, fruit drinks, and citrus fruits; if these foods and drinks are included in your diet, rinse your mouth out with water or brush your teeth after consumption.
• Fewer Snacks: Sugary and starchy foods make the mouth more acidic for a few hours after consumption. Constant snacking will keep the mouth in this state throughout the day. If you do snack throughout the day, rinse your mouth out with water or brush your teeth after eating.
• An Increase in Water Consumption: Water cleanses the mouth by removing plaque and neutralizing acid.
• Fluoride: Make sure that your toothpaste contains fluoride, which strengthens the teeth.

Our Orange County implant dentists can examine your teeth to determine if your tooth enamel is eroding. Contact Caldwell Dental Care today to schedule an appointment at our practice.