Enamel erosion is the loss of enamel on the teeth of the hard, outer layer that protects the more vulnerable inner layers of the tooth. Once enamel is eroded, it can lead to serious problems such as tooth sensitivity, cavities, and even tooth loss.
Enamel erosion can be caused by a number of things, including acidic foods and drinks, grinding or clenching of the teeth, and brushing too hard. It is important to be aware of the signs of enamel erosion so that you can take steps to protect your teeth.
Some common signs include sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, visible indentations or pitting on the teeth, and smooth or shiny patches on the teeth. If you are concerned that you may be experiencing enamel erosion, please contact your dentist for an appointment! Let’s look a little deeper into enamel erosion and what you can do to prevent it.
Common Reasons for Enamel Erosion
Enamel erosion is the loss of tooth enamel due to acid attack. The enamel is the hard, outer layer that protects the more sensitive dentine underneath. Once the enamel is eroded, it can lead to pain, sensitivity, and discoloration of the teeth. There are many causes of enamel erosion, including:
- Acidic foods and drinks: citrus fruits, tomatoes, sports drinks, and vinegar can all contribute to enamel erosion.
- GERD: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which stomach acid flows back up into the throat, damaging the enamel on the teeth.
- Dry mouth: Saliva helps to neutralize acids in the mouth and protect the teeth from erosion. If you suffer from dry mouth, you may be at increased risk for enamel erosion.
- Brushing too hard: Brushing your teeth too vigorously can wear away at tooth enamel over time. It’s important to brush gently and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your teeth.
- Bulimia: Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by binging followed by purging. The repeated vomiting associated with bulimia can also damage tooth enamel.
If you think you may be suffering from enamel erosion, it’s important to see your dentist so they can assess the damage and recommend treatment options. In some cases, enameled fillings or bonding can be used to repair the damage!. However, once enamel is lost, it cannot be regrown or replaced. As such, it’s important to take steps to prevent enamel erosion from occurring. After it has occurred, replacing the tooth with a crown or cosmetic dentistry.
Repairing Enamel Erosion
In severe cases, the enamel may be completely worn away, exposing the entire tooth. Dentists can repair enamel erosion with a variety of techniques, depending on the severity of the damage. For minor enamel loss, the dentist may recommend fluoride treatments or toothpaste. More advanced cases may require bonding or veneers.
Sometimes, dentists can repair enamel erosion by using composite resins or porcelain veneers. Composite resins are made of glass or quartz particles that are bound together with a resin. They are used to fill in cavities and rebuild enamel. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front of the tooth. They are used to cover up chips, cracks, and stains.
In severe cases of enamel erosion, the dentist may need to perform a root canal procedure to replace the erosion with a crown. By understanding the causes of enamel erosion and seeking treatment early, patients can prevent further damage to their teeth.
Take Care of Your Enamel
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for many reasons. Not only does it help to keep your teeth and gums healthy, but it also plays a role in preventing enamel erosion. Fortunately, brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is an effective way to prevent enamel erosion. By removing plaque and tartar buildup, you can help to keep your teeth healthy and strong. So be sure to brush and floss regularly — your teeth will thank you for it!
Dental Group of Simi Valley
Drs. Herschel Berger and Laura Jen Kin are the second generation of dentists to serve the people of Simi Valley, offering many patients a lifetime of oral health care. We are proud of our reputation for excellent and gentle care where everyone is treated like family. Dental Group of Simi Valley is family owned and all of our patients are part of our extended family. We are proud to help individuals and families of Simi Valley, CA care for their dental health, so call us today!