Do you notice your teeth becoming thinner or more sensitive? It could be due to dental erosion.
Dental erosion occurs when the enamel or the surface of the tooth wears away. Acids eat away at the enamel, resulting in enamel loss.
There are various reasons for dental erosion, and we list some of them below.
- Acidic Foods and Beverages
Acids are present in the food and beverages we consume. Some of these choices are healthy, such as citrus fruits, and some can be harmful, such as sodas. Most are sugary, too.
Bad bacteria feed on these food deposits and produce enamel-eroding acids. Sugary snacks often cling to teeth, allowing bad bacteria more time to wreak havoc.
You don’t have to eliminate acidic foods and drinks from your diet, but taking precautions to protect your teeth against damage is crucial.
Drinking plain water right after meals or rinsing your mouth with water to dislodge food debris helps. Reducing the time your teeth are exposed to acids and maintaining good oral hygiene habits are also essential. - Stomach Acids
Stomach acids are strong and can expose teeth to damage.
The symptoms of eating disorders can manifest in the mouth as acids enter and attack the enamel. Meanwhile, habits like aggressive brushing and consuming acidic foods exacerbate the damage.
Frequent vomiting, morning sickness, and acid reflux are potential causes of dental erosion. If these medical conditions are the main culprits for your thinning enamel, your dentist may advise that you seek treatment from specialists. They can also help you boost your oral hygiene routine. - Genetics
Some factors that contribute to enamel erosion cannot be controlled, such as genetics. There are people born with thinner enamel, making them more vulnerable during acid attacks.
The genes that form the enamel, the saliva, and a person’s sense of taste may impact their susceptibility to dental erosions.
Even the genes related to the immune system can affect the severity of dental erosion in individuals. (Source: Genetic Aspects of Dental Erosive Wear and Dental Caries.) - Medications and Dry Mouth
Some medications increase the mouth’s acidity level. They reduce salivary flow and leave the mouth dry.
Saliva neutralizes acid levels in the mouth and helps repair tooth surfaces damaged by acid attacks. Without enough saliva, teeth can become more prone to enamel loss.
Examples of potentially dry-mouth-causing medications are decongestants, antihistamines, and antidepressants.
Talk to your dentist and primary healthcare provider to confirm if any prescription drug you’re taking is causing dry mouth. They may be able to recommend an alternative or provide advice to protect your oral health.
Have Your Teeth Assessed for Enamel Erosion in NE Calgary, AB
Get in touch with us at Rundle Dental to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists. Our team members can set up an appointment at your convenience. You may also leave us a message, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Dental erosion is preventable. With a solid dental hygiene routine and regular dental visits, you can protect your teeth from acid attacks. We’re happy to share more information about the causes of enamel erosion during your visit to our dental office in NE Calgary, Alberta.