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3 Sources of Acids that May be Causing Tooth Erosion
Teeth are covered by a hard substance called enamel. This hard layer can be removed or dissolved by acid exposure causing teeth to become more susceptible to decay, breakage or even completly lost. So, where does the acid causing tooth erosion come from?
Common sources of acids associated with tooth erosion include:
- Acidic food and drinks
- Acid reflux
- Stomach acid from vomiting
Acidic food and drinks that are consumed on a regular basis can dissolve enamel over a number of years. Examples are eating acidic fruits which contain citric acid and/or soda which typically contains some form of acid which could be phosphoric, citric or malic acid. Sports drinks have also been linked to erosion. Consumed as little as 1 to 2 times per week can cause irreversible enamel erosion.
Acid reflux is a medical condition where stomach acid is allowed to come back up into the mouth causing enamel erosion. This condition occurs when the muscle that seals off the stomach becomes weak and can no longer effectively prevent acid from leaving the stomach. Reflux can be caused from consuming large meals or eating certain types of foods. Left untreated, reflux can cause significant enamel erosion.
Repeated vomiting can also cause serious enamel just as reflux.
Early signs of erosion vary from pitting of the teeth to flattening of the back teeth. As more enamel is lost the teeth may become sensitive to temperatures and sometimes sweets. The teeth may begin to appear darker as the dentin, located just under the enamel, starts to become visible.
Tooth erosion can be treated by avoiding acidic foods and drink, medical treatment for chronic reflux and psychological counseling if vomiting is a chronic issue, as with patients who suffer from bulimia.
If you have already erosion issues, use a soft toothbrush, non-abrasive toothpaste (very small amount), and consult your dentist.