Stop Teeth from Wearing Down
Tooth wear is a process that can be accelerated by aggravating factors or slowed down by protective factors. It is the process by which the protective coating on your teeth, called enamel, is worn down, either through use or other means. Tooth wear, also called dental erosion, is the loss of enamel on the teeth. It makes the teeth more vulnerable because the enamel protects the tooth; it is the hardest calcified tissue of the tooth, and therefore can be problematic and should be taken seriously.
Prevention is the best treatment against tooth wear, which concerns about one in three people in the United States. Tooth wear can take many forms, all of which can cause sensitivity and discomfort. It can also be a symptom of a larger condition. Once your teeth have started wearing down, you can not reverse or stop any damage; you can only control and slow any further damage.
What are the causes of dental erosion?
Tooth wear, or dental erosion, is not caused by bacteria, it is a mechanical phenomenon. Dental erosion can be caused by several factors, including:
- The acids present in soft drinks, energy drinks, fruit juices as well as in certain foods that we consume;
- Stomach acids that reach the mouth if you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease, vomiting, etc.;
- Certain medications, taken in case of chronic illnesses, cause dry mouth. As saliva naturally defends our teeth against acids, when its quality and quantity decrease, the enamel of our teeth then becomes more exposed to acids;
- A high consumption of sugary foods since the bacteria in our mouth, by feeding on the sugars contained in these foods, produce acids that directly attack our teeth;
- An overly aggressive brushing technique can gradually damage tooth enamel
What are the symptoms of dental erosion?
Dental erosion, which is manifested by the deterioration of the enamel, presents symptoms that are very specific. The early signs of this condition can only be spotted by the dentist. However, here are the symptoms to look out for:
- Discolored or yellowed teeth;
- Dull or translucent teeth, especially at the ends of these;
- Cracked teeth;
- A tooth sensitivity felt when you consume hot and cold, very sweet or acidic drinks or foods.
How to prevent dental erosion?
Preventing dental erosion involves simple tips and actions to adopt on a daily basis that will help maintain good oral health.
- Limit your consumption of acidic foods and drinks;
- Avoid snacking between meals, because it is after we have eaten that the level of acidity in our mouth is at its highest. Thus, if we spend our days snacking, we expose our teeth to acid attacks;
- Brush your teeth after each meal, using fluoridated toothpaste and remember to floss at least once a day;
- Be sure to use the correct brushing technique to avoid damaging your enamel;
- Visit your dentist regularly for a complete examination of your oral health. If he notices that your enamel tends to wear out, he can advise you on the use of certain products, for example specialized toothpastes which have a protective action for the enamel.
To learn more, contact us.