5 Reasons for Tooth Enamel Erosion

The tooth enamel is responsible for protecting a person’s teeth against physical or chemical damage. The enamel is considered to be one of the hardest and the toughest tissues in the human body. It is also stronger than a bone. As dental or tooth enamel is deemed to be the first line of defence for a person’s teeth, you need to protect it from eroding. Tooth enamel erosion can make your teeth appear yellowish, chip your tooth, or even make your tooth look translucent. In other words, your tooth becomes weak and is prone to decay. Therefore, it’s important that you know what causes tooth enamel erosion and prevent it from happening.

1. Overconsumption of Soft Drinks

Drinks such as sodas, fruit juices, and other sweet beverages consist phosphoric and citric acids. Regular and excessive consumption of soft drinks can erode your tooth enamel. To protect your teeth, ensure that you rinse your mouth with normal water after consuming such drinks. This will wash away the acid that gets stuck to your teeth.

2. Xerostomia

Xerostomia or dry mouth can also be one of the primary causes of tooth enamel erosion. Lack of saliva means that the foods that get stuck in the interdental spaces are not washed away. As a result, the bacteria in the mouth feed on the food debris and result in the formation of harmful acids that erode the tooth enamel. Therefore, visit a dental clinic to know how you can treat this condition.

3. Oral Habits

When a person follows unhealthy oral habits, there is an increased risk of eroding the enamel. These habits include chewing on a pen or using a metal pin to remove the stuck food particles. Not brushing daily or using a mouthwash can also lead to tooth enamel erosion. For instance, if you brush only once a day or limit your mouthwash usage, there are chances that foods may get stuck between your tooth. When this happens, the bacteria feed on the food particles and create acids that erode the enamel. You can avoid this by brushing twice a day and using a mouthwash after eating.

4. Gastrointestinal Problems

Gastrointestinal issues can cause acid reflux into the mouth. Situations such as frequent vomiting bring back a considerable amount of acid back in the mouth. These acids when they come in contact with your tooth erodes the enamel.

5. Medication

Several medicines such as aspirin and antihistamines have high acidic content. When a person consumes such pills for a more extended period, the tooth enamel is affected. To ensure that your dental enamel stays intact, reduce or stop the consumption of such medications.

Visit a dental clinic in Edmonton to check if your teeth are in good condition and that your tooth enamel is not getting affected. Also, getting your oral health examined checked once in every six months can help you identify any dental issues and get them treated immediately before the problem advances.