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What Is Dental Erosion?


Posted on 10/1/2024 by Smiles of Tulsa
Dentist with patient smiling after appointment at Smiles of Tulsa in Tulsa, OKHave you noticed your teeth looking shorter or more rounded? Do they feel rough or have indentations? If so, you might be experiencing dental erosion.

Dental erosion is the gradual loss of tooth enamel caused by the frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks. Unlike cavities, which are caused by bacteria, erosion doesn't involve bacteria. Instead, the acid directly dissolves the enamel, making the teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity, discoloration, and fracture.

What Causes Dental Erosion?


Several factors can contribute to dental erosion:

Dietary Factors:

•  Acidic foods and drinks: This includes citrus fruits, sodas, sports drinks, energy drinks, and fruit juices. Even healthy options like vinegar and kombucha can contribute to erosion.
•  Frequency of consumption: The more frequently you consume acidic foods and drinks, the higher the risk of erosion.
•  Dietary patterns: Snacking throughout the day and grazing on acidic foods can prolong exposure to acid.

Other Factors:

•  Gastrointestinal conditions: Acid reflux and bulimia can expose teeth to stomach acid, accelerating erosion.
•  Medications: Certain medications, like aspirin and cough syrups, are acidic and can contribute to erosion.
•  Occupational exposure: Workers in industrial settings with high acid concentrations might be at increased risk.

Signs and Symptoms of Dental Erosion


Early signs of erosion might be subtle:

•  Tooth sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks.
•  Changes in tooth appearance: Teeth may appear shorter, rounded, or translucent.
•  Surface changes: The surface of the teeth might feel rough or have indentations.
•  Discoloration: Teeth may become yellowed or discolored.

What Can You Do About Dental Erosion?


If you suspect dental erosion, it's important to see a dentist. They can assess the extent of the erosion and recommend the best course of treatment. This might include:

•  Dietary modifications: Reducing the frequency and amount of acidic foods and drinks in your diet.
•  Changing consumption patterns: Drinking acidic beverages with a straw, avoiding sipping throughout the day, and rinsing with water after consuming acidic foods.
•  Using fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash: These strengthen the enamel and help prevent further erosion.
•  Dental restorations: In severe cases, crowns or fillings might be needed to restore the affected teeth.

Prevention is Key


The best way to manage dental erosion is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some tips:

•  Limit your intake of acidic foods and drinks.
•  Drink acidic beverages with a straw and avoid sipping throughout the day.
•  Rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods.
•  Chew sugar-free gum after meals to stimulate saliva production.
•  Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
•  See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

By taking these steps, you can keep your smile healthy and strong for years to come.

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Tulsa, OK 74136-8327


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Our Dental Blog | Smiles of Tulsa - Dentist in Tulsa, OK
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Smiles of Tulsa, 6565 S. Yale Ave., Ste. 1103, Tulsa, OK 74136 | (918) 891-3059 | smilesoftulsa.com | 11/2/2024 | Page Terms:Preventive Dentistry Tulsa OK |