Blog

The hard, outer layer of your teeth is called enamel. It is important to support the health of your enamel to protect your teeth and prevent decay. Dental erosion occurs when the enamel is worn away. Dental erosion can be caused by diets high in sugary or acidic foods, forceful abrasion, like teeth-grinding, or disorders that cause stomach acid to come in contact with the teeth.

First, the most common cause of dental erosion is the consumption of acidic foods and beverages. For example, when the pH level of a drink is low that means it is more acidic than it is alkaline. Frequently drinking acidic beverages like fruit juices, soda, caffeinated beverages, sports drinks, or alcoholic beverages will wear away at the enamel of your teeth. Try using a straw, brushing after eating and drinking, and switching to water to avoid dental erosion caused by your diet.

Another cause of dental erosion is forceful abrasion of the teeth. This may come in the form of tooth-grinding. Many people grind their teeth in their sleep involuntarily and unknowingly. If a change in the appearance or sensitivity of your teeth causes you to suspect that you are grinding your teeth you should see a dentist right away. Vigorous tooth brushing is also connected with forceful abrasion and may cause dental erosion, so remember to brush gently and thoroughly.

Certain disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia or gastro-esophageal reflux disease can expose the teeth to stomach acid which is harmful to the enamel and upsetting to the restorative effects of saliva in the mouth.

Here at OC Advanced Periodontics we are ready and waiting to help you. We can assess the health of your enamel and consult with you to minimize dental erosion. Call us at 714-795-3117 for an appointment with our dentist here in Tustin, California.