Toothe Erosion: What You Need to Know
Dental erosion or tooth erosion is the wearing of tooth enamel due to acids or mechanical forces. The acids that cause tooth enamel erosion could come from stomach or from food and drinks. While mechanical forces from nail biting, teeth grinding or clenching could be a result of emotional stress and this type of enamel wearing is called Attrition.
Dental erosion is different than tooth decay. Erosion of tooth enamel is caused by acids or physical forces while tooth decay is caused by bacteria. Tooth erosion can be severe in patients with dry mouth. As acid neutralization does not occur in the low level or absence of saliva.
Tooth erosion can make teeth more vulnerable to stains, sensitivity and cavities. Tooth erosion will continue to wear away the underlying layers of teeth (dentin and tooth pulp) if left untreated.
Causes of Tooth Erosion
Several emotional, physical, and chemical reactions can cause tooth erosion. Some common causes include:
- Acidic foods and drinks
- Acid reflux (GERD)
- Eating disorders
- Aggressive brushing
- Medications
- Dry mouth
- Genetic disorder
Effects of Tooth Erosion
Tooth sensitivity
Chronic acid refluxes or improper bowel movements cause tooth erosion at gum line. This type of erosion can cause tooth sensitivity.
Discoloration
Dentine is beneath an enamel layer of tooth, yellowish in color. Wearing down enamel will expose dentine and cause discoloration.
Pit (holes) on teeth surfaces
Tooth erosion due to acid reflex cause roughness of tooth surface. This roughness increases bacterial load causing enamel break down leading to pitting of tooth surface.
Tooth decay
Tooth decay occurs because of enamel remineralization. Enamel remineralization occurs due to acid attacks. Tooth erosion due to acid reflex might result in tooth decay.
Chipped tooth
Chipped tooth occur as break down of enamel layer under acid attack or trauma.
Prevention Techniques
- Brushing with fluoride toothpaste
- Limit acidic foods
- Limit frequent sugar snacking
- Limit alcohol intake
- Stopping eating at least 2 hours before sleep
- Regular dental check-ups
Treatment Options
Several tooth erosion treatment options are available to repair damaged teeth. The dentists decide suitable treatment as per the severity of dental condition.
1. Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a type of restoration. Tooth-color composite is applied on tooth surface to enhance appearance. It repairs cracks, discoloration, and spaces in teeth.
2. Dental Crowns
Dental crowns encircles the tooth to provide support. It is used to restore decayed, broken, or weak teeth.
3. Tooth Fillings
Tooth enamel acid erosions above gum line also called cervical burns. These types of erosions can be filled by tooth fillings.
Lifestyle Tips for Healthy Teeth
- Proper Oral Hygiene
- Drink fluoridated water
- Chewing Sugar-Free Gum
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
- Brushing gently
Related Conditions
1. Acid Reflux Disease
Acid reflux is a common condition in which stomach contents comes back in esophagus, damaging the esophagus and respiratory lining. Untreated acid reflux not only causes tooth erosion but can also cause other medical problems.
2. Enamel Hypoplasia
Enamel Hypoplasia is an enamel defect characterized as thin or missing enamel. It is a congenital defect. It occurs due to deficiency of phosphorous, calcium, and vitamin A, C and D at the time enamel development.
3. Bruxism
Bruxism is a tooth grinding or clenching condition caused by a person intentionally or unintentionally. It is mainly caused due to anger, stress, pain or frustration.
