Dental erosion is the irreversible loss of tooth structure due to chemical dissolution by acid.
Ian Sweeney
It can be found in people of all ages and is typically seen in the enamel of teeth; however it may proceed to the underlying dentine if the process continues.
The most common cause of dental erosion is the consumption of acidic foods and drinks. Any food and drink with an acidic pH may cause teeth to demineralise and breakdown.
Sports drinks, carbonated drinks, orange and apple juices are common culprits. Frequency rather than total intake of acidic drinks is seen as the greatest factor in dental erosion.
Saliva is a natural buffer to the acid we consume as well as acid produced by bacteria in our mouths. Drinks vary in their resistance to the buffering effect of saliva. Studies show that fruit juices are the most resistant to saliva’s buffering effect, followed by, in order: fruit based carbonated drinks and flavoured mineral waters, non fruit based carbonated drinks followed by sparkling mineral waters.
A number of medications such as vitamin C, aspirin and some iron preparations are acidic and may contribute towards acid erosion. Dry mouth as a result of some medications may also contribute to erosion.
Dehydration from sports training, in combination with acidic sports drinks, may result in quite severe erosion of teeth while the common condition of gastric reflux will also cause dental erosion. Patients with Gastroesophageal reflux disease, anorexia nervosa and bulimia are all at risk of erosion.
Common signs of dental erosion
– Changes in appearance and sensitivity.
– An increased yellowing of teeth may result due to thinning of enamel overlying the yellow dentine or root surface.
– Teeth may become shorter as they are worn down more quickly due to the loss of enamel.
– Tooth fractures may occur due to the loss of the supporting enamel.
– Pain when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods, due to the enamel having been eroded away, exposing the sensitive dentine.
Extensive damage caused by erosion may require extensive dental rehabilitation to restore normal tooth function and aesthetics. Early diagnosis and preventive measures by your dentist will, as always, help to minimise damage of dental disease.
