Dental Erosion

What is tooth erosion?

Tooth erosion refers to the wearing down of the enamel (the teeth’s outer protective layer) caused by mechanical and chemical forces. As the enamel thins, the teeth are weakened and become more prone to sensitivity, stains, and cavities. Other terms for tooth erosion include dental erosion and enamel erosion.

If tooth erosion is not treated, it will continue eroding inner layers such as the dentin and tooth pulp. Fortunately, this process takes place gradually. Even if some enamel has already been lost, there are various ways to prevent the condition from worsening.

Symptoms

The symptoms of dental erosion can differ from person to person. Early-stage signs may include the following:

• Tooth sensitivity.
• Discolouration of teeth.
• Chipped teeth.
• Pitting on the surfaces of the teeth.

As enamel erosion progresses and affects more layers of the teeth, you may begin to experience pain. You will likely feel increased discomfort when it reaches near the tooth pulp, which contains nerves.

Causes

Various risk factors can contribute to tooth erosion. The possible causes include:

• Consuming acidic, sugary, or starchy foods and drinks.
• Brushing your teeth too aggressively, especially at the gum line.
• Grinding your teeth (bruxism).
• GERD (chronic acid reflux).
• Dry mouth (xerostomia).
• Prolonged use of certain medications, such as antihistamines, which can reduce saliva production.
• Inherited disorders such as enamel hypoplasia, where one is born with little or no enamel.
• Bulimia nervosa, which exposes teeth to stomach acid.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of dental erosion often includes:

• Visual examination: Your dentist assesses your teeth for signs of shape or colour change and enamel loss.
• Patient history: The dentist reviews your medical history, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors that may contribute to dental erosion.
• Photographs and X-rays: These assist dentists in evaluating the degree of enamel loss and tracking its progress over time.

Treatment Options

Treatment for dental erosion depends on the severity of the condition and may involve:

• Dietary changes: Limit the consumption of acidic foods and drinks and rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
• Fluoride treatments: Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash to ease sensitivity and strengthen enamel.
• Restorative treatments: Use dental bonding, crowns, or veneers to restore the aesthetics and function of the worn teeth.
• Saliva substitutes: Use products that enhance saliva flow if you have a dry mouth.
• Medical treatment: Treat underlying health issues such as GERD with appropriate medical care.

Complications

If left untreated, dental erosion could lead to multiple complications, including:

• Heightened tooth sensitivity: Dental erosion can result in severe discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sugary foods and beverages.
• Cavities: Thin tooth enamel increases the risk of cavities and decay.
• Tooth damage: Weakened teeth caused by erosion are more susceptible to chips, cracks, and fractures.
• Aesthetic concerns: Changes in the colour, shape, and transparency of your teeth can impact the appearance of your smile.
• Tooth loss: Significant erosion can result in the loss of the affected tooth.

Prevention

To help prevent dental erosion:

• Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to reduce enamel wear.
• Follow a healthy diet: Minimise intake of acidic drinks and foods, and drink plenty of water to help neutralise acids.
• Schedule routine dental visits: Regular check-ups to monitor enamel health and detect early signs of erosion.
• Use a straw: Drink acidic beverages with a straw to limit contact with your teeth.
• Rinse your mouth: Use water to rinse your mouth after consuming acidic foods or drinks to aid in acid neutralisation.
• Chew sugar-free gum: Stimulate saliva production by chewing sugar-free gum to buffer acids in your mouth.
• Address health conditions: Seek medical care for disorders such as GERD to minimise exposure of teeth to acid.

Outlook/Prognosis

Is tooth erosion serious?

If dental erosion is not treated, it can lead to severe consequences, such as:

• Increased hypersensitivity to cold, heat, and sweet.
• Dentin exposure, which raises the likelihood of cavities.
• Potential tooth loss.

Fortunately, tooth erosion progresses slowly and doesn’t occur overnight. By addressing it at the first signs, you can effectively prevent it from worsening.

Living With

When should I see my dentist?

Regular dental visits are necessary for maintaining good oral health. Some individuals may need to see their dentist every six months, while others, particularly those susceptible to dental erosion, cavities, or gum disease, may require more frequent appointments. Your dentist can also suggest a suitable schedule based on your needs.

Furthermore, if you notice teeth sensitivity or visual signs of dental erosion, such as pitting, chips, or discolouration, consider scheduling a dental visit promptly. Early intervention can prevent tooth erosion from worsening.

A Note from MD.co.uk

In many cases, tooth erosion progresses slowly, making it difficult to notice early symptoms unless you are aware of what to look for. For this reason, frequent dental check-ups are crucial. Detecting and treating tooth erosion in its early stages can significantly reduce the risk of infections, cavities, and other dental problems. Discuss with your dentist how often you should undergo examinations and cleanings. Preventive care can ultimately save time, money, and stress.