Erosive Tooth Wear

You know how rocks can erode over a period of time? Well, guess what - teeth can do that too! Dental erosion is the loss or wear of dental hard tissue by acids not caused by bacteria. Think you've had an excessive amount of tooth wear and erosion? Read on and find out!


 




What Are the Causes?

Erosion can happen from introducing gastric acids into the oral cavity - in other words, acids that come into contact with teeth will cause tooth erosion. Acid reflux and excessive vomiting can contribute to this, as well as carbonated sodas, sports drinks, and soft drinks. 

Connections between chronic alcoholism, pregnancy and bulimia can increase the risk of tooth erosion due to the high possibility of excessive vomiting caused by those conditions.

Other extrinsic causes include industrial and occupational risks that are found while working in factories and/or frequent swimming in poorly monitored chlorinated swimming pools. Airborne industrial acids have been found especially in munitions, battery, and fertilizer plants. 


How Do I Prevent This?

Dental Erosion is irreversible once caused, so the main focus should be on prevention and reduction. Management, including dietary lifestyle, is helpful for those who already have weakened tooth enamel. Some studies have cited that milk and yogurt products may have a protective effect against tooth erosion, and calcium may be a good supplement to acidic beverages, though some have warned that this can not be presumed. 

However, fluoride treatments are effective in protecting dental enamel from the effects of tooth erosion and is more effective than the above mentioned methods. 



             

KEY TIPS TO REMEMBER:

• Avoid acidic beverages, particularly swishing or straining the liquid between the teeth, or holding the liquid in the mouth. Use of a straw positioned behind the front teeth is recommended to avoid bathing the teeth.
• Drink water while eating, or rinse the mouth with water after consuming acidic drinks, candies, or foods.
• After vomiting, rinse the mouth with water, a sodium bicarbonate rinse, or milk.
• Saliva helps buffer and remove acids; chewing gum may help protect teeth from erosion by promoting saliva flow.
• Drink milk along with acidic meals or beverages, which contributes to remineralization and helps neutralize acids.
• Avoid brushing teeth immediately after eating or drinking acidic beverages. Some researchers suggest waiting a half hour to one hour after eating, drinking, or vomiting.
• Brush teeth using a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste. Look for products that carry the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Sources:   https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/erosive-tooth-wear