Dental Erosion

Dental erosion is the loss of tooth enamel and other tooth structure from frequent exposure to strong acids. The most common causes are:

• acidic drinks and foods
• some medicines
• stomach acid that regurgitates into the mouth

Unfortunately many of the healthy and raw foods including salads can have an adverse effect on tooth enamel.

The loss of enamel may be slight to virtually total. In severe cases, the teeth can be dissolved down to the gum line.
When tooth enamel is increasingly eroded, and the dentine and pulp become exposed, pain and sensitivity are common symptoms.

If the erosion is not limited and the tooth is not treated, abscess and loss of the tooth may occur.
Dentists report that dental erosion has become more frequent, particularly amongst children, teenagers and young adults.
Dental erosion is not the same as tooth decay, although the two conditions can happen at the same time. Tooth decay (caries) occurs when bacteria in the mouth turn sugar into acid, which can damage the tooth. Poor oral hygiene and frequent consumption of sugar are the cause of tooth decay.

Common Acid Sources and Risk Factors

You need to avoid, limit or manage the exposure to acids e.g.

• Carbinated soft drinks (regular and sugar free)
• Red and White Wines
• Fruit Juices and Cordials
• Citrus Fruits
• Fruit Jams
• Some Salad Dressings
• Acidic medications like chewable vitamin C tablets, some cough syrups and some antiseptic mouthwashes and more

Source: Australian Dental Association Inc.

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