Dental erosion is a condition that occurs when the enamel on your teeth is worn away.
This can happen due to a number of factors, including:
- Acidic foods and drinks: Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, soft drinks, and sports drinks, can erode tooth enamel.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): GERD is a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. This can also erode tooth enamel.
- Bulimia: Bulimia is an eating disorder in which people binge on food and then purge by vomiting. This can also erode tooth enamel.
- Brushing too hard: Brushing your teeth too hard can also erode tooth enamel.
Tooth erosion can cause a number of problems, including:
- Sensitivity: Teeth that have been eroded can become sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, and sour foods and drinks.
- Discoloration: Teeth that have been eroded can become discolored.
- Breakage: Teeth that have been eroded can become more likely to break or chip.
If you think you may have tooth erosion, please contact Jonathan C. Wang, DDS Inc. for an appointment. Dr. Jonathan Wang can diagnose the condition and recommend treatment options.
Treatment for tooth erosion may include:
- Remineralization: Remineralization is a process that helps to rebuild the enamel on your teeth. This can be done with fluoride treatments or toothpaste.
- Fillings: If the erosion is severe, your dentist may need to fill the affected teeth.
- Crowns: In some cases, your dentist may need to crown the affected teeth.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent tooth erosion:
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks: If you must consume acidic foods and drinks, do so in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- If you have GERD, take steps to manage your condition. This may include taking medication, eating smaller meals more often, and avoiding foods that trigger your symptoms.
- If you have bulimia, seek treatment. This may include therapy and medication.
- Brush your teeth gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush for two minutes, twice a day.
- Floss your teeth daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.
- See your dentist for regular checkups: Your dentist can check for signs of tooth erosion and recommend treatment options if necessary.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your teeth healthy and prevent tooth erosion.
Here are some additional tips to help you prevent tooth erosion:
- Eat a balanced diet: A balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to reduce your risk of tooth erosion.
- Drink plenty of water: Water helps to wash away food particles and acids from your teeth.
- Use fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride toothpaste helps to strengthen your teeth and make them more resistant to erosion.
- See your dentist for regular checkups: Your dentist can check for signs of tooth erosion and recommend treatment options if necessary.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your teeth healthy and prevent tooth erosion.