Our teeth are covered by a thin layer of material called tooth enamel. This layer protects teeth from daily wear and tear, such as grinding down food. However, the food we eat and the beverages we drink attack tooth enamel every day. Sugar is particularly harmful to enamel.
Tooth enamel is highly sensitive to changes in saliva’s pH. Over time, certain foods, medications, and/or stomach acid from a condition like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause tooth enamel to dissolve and erode.
Most patients don’t notice damage caused by acid erosion until the advanced stages. This is an alarming issue because it will not grow back once tooth enamel is lost. When the enamel dissolves, the teeth become more susceptible to damage, discoloration, and decay. Tooth enamel erosion is one of the more serious dental concerns patients can face.
Signs of Tooth Enamel Erosion
Common symptoms of tooth erosion include:
- Tooth sensitivity, especially to hot, cold, or sweet food and drinks
- Chipped teeth or sharp tooth edges
- Tooth discoloration or darkening of the teeth
- Thinning or shortened teeth may be recognized as changes in the bite
- Pain or irritation in the mouth
Treatment for Tooth Enamel Erosion
Suppose your teeth are already affected by dental erosion. In that case, our dental care team can provide various cosmetic and restorative dental treatment options to repair damage and restore teeth to optimal health and appearance.
Dr. Conover treats patients with tooth erosion using:
- Porcelain veneers – Teeth veneers are thin shells of tooth-like material that we permanently adhere to the front of the tooth. The dentist color-matches them to blend in naturally with the rest of your smile.
- Dental crowns – Dental crowns will cover the entire tooth, protecting it from further erosion and damage.
- Cosmetic bonding – Bonding is an economical way to disguise almost any imperfection. It is a routine treatment that we can complete in a single visit.
How to Prevent Further Enamel Erosion
Practicing healthy dental habits is one of the best ways to prevent tooth erosion. These should include regular visits to the dentist and brushing twice daily using a dentin-sensitive toothpaste.
If you suspect acid reflux disease or GERD, consult with your physician. Though these are chronic conditions, you can manage them through medication and lifestyle changes. The following treatments may be helpful:
- Dietary changes to remove trigger foods, which often include fried or greasy food, tomato-based food, chocolate, carbonated beverages, citrus fruits, coffee, and alcohol
- Quit smoking
- Lose weight, acid reflux, and GERD are more common in patients who are overweight or obese
- Drink plenty of water
- Elevate the head of your bed at least 6 inches higher than the foot
- While antacids can help to relieve the burning sensation caused by acid reflux, be sure not to overuse these medications as they can also cause dental problems.
Schedule a Dental Exam & Consultation Today
Dr. Conover is welcoming new patients in Center City Philadelphia and surrounding communities. Call us at (215) 395-6076 or request an appointment online today.