Cosmetic Dentistry - Tooth Erosion

Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Payson, AZ.

Believe it or not, but when you’re consuming acidic beverages, including fruit juice and anything carbonated, you can actually be causing tooth decay with each sip you take. Most people consume these things everyday without realizing they may be harming their teeth. All this acid will ultimately wear the enamel away that protects your teeth. Your teeth may become sensitive, cracked or even discolored.

What is Tooth Erosion?

Tooth erosion is loss of tooth enamel because of the presence of acid in the mouth. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, even harder than bones. Being the outer layer of each tooth it protects the inner tooth (nerve, blood vessels and connective tissue) from harm.

Our salvia contains calcium and helps strengthen our teeth but when our bodies have too much acid in them this natural process cannot take place. The opposite then begins to happen and our teeth break down.

Causes of Tooth Erosion

Tooth erosion is frequently caused by the consumption of certain acidic foods and drinks. Carbonated drinks (including diet, sugar free, and flavored water), sports drinks, and all fruit juices are varying types of acidic beverages. Citrus fruits and pickles are some examples of acidic foods.

Tooth erosion has other causes as well:

• Decreased saliva due to medical conditions
• Acid reflux disease
• Bulimia (eating disorder)
• Some gastrointestinal diseases
• Acidic medications

Tips to Prevent Tooth Erosion

• Monitor your daily intake of acidic foods and beverages
• Never sip or swish acidic drinks around in your mouth
• Because acids temporarily soften the tooth surface, don't brush your teeth immediately after eating or drinking something acidic
• Floss once a day and brush your teeth twice a day and always use a fluoride toothpaste
• Try to avoid snacking between meals. If snacks are needed, choose ‘safe’ snacks like sandwiches, toast, pita bread, etc.
• Keep up on your regular hygiene appointments

We can identify tooth erosion, pinpoint the causes and advise you on how to prevent further damage.

For information on other general mouth problems, please see our pages on Halitosis, Smoker’s Mouth, Meth Mouth, and Nightguards.

If you would like to have a complete mouth examination including oral cancer screening, please call or email our comprehensive dentistry office today.