Causes and Treatment of Tooth Erosion

Causes and Treatment of Tooth ErosionThere are numerous dental problems that a person may face. By meeting with acosmetic dentist, you can learn about all of your options for advanced dental care and dental wellness. You may be surprised about what kinds of dental problems you may need professional help getting addressed.

Right now we want to focus on a relatively common and misunderstood dental health issue known as tooth erosion. By learning what it is and how it can be prevented, we hope to provide readers of our blog with some useful information that can improve their overall dental heath.

What is tooth erosion?

Also known as dental erosion and acid erosion, tooth erosion occurs when the acidity of the mouth causes tooth structure to become damaged or weakened.

What is the cause of tooth erosion?

Tooth erosion is a dental health issue related to the pH of the mouth. When the pH inside of the mouth is more acidic than basic, erosion can occur. Some of the following substances cause the pH of the mouth to become acidic:

  • Coffee
  • Colas
  • Beer
  • Citrus fruits
  • Apples
  • Fruit juices
  • Vinegar
  • Soy sauce

It should also be noted that gastric fluids can cause tooth erosion to occur. In fact, tooth erosion is often a warning sign of someone suffering from bulimia.

How does tooth erosion differ from tooth decay?

While it may seem that tooth erosion and tooth decay are the same thing, they are not. While tooth erosion is caused by an acidic pH in the mouth, tooth decay is caused by the bacteria within the mouth feeding on food particles and producing a substance known as plaque that eats away at tooth structure. While the two are separate issues, it is not unheard of for a person to be suffering from both tooth decay and tooth erosion.

Treating Tooth Damage Caused By Dental Erosion

Addressing tooth erosion will involve some commonrestorative dentistry treatments. For tooth damage, the use of dental fillings, inlays, onlays, or dental crowns may be advised. If the internal structures within the weakened tooth have been infected by oral bacteria, a root canal may be necessary. Dentists will generally do their best to work as conservatively, allowing patients to maintain as much of their tooth structure as possible.

In serious cases of tooth erosion, the tooth may not be able to be saved. These cases will require tooth extraction to be performed. Should this be necessary, your dentist will also have options for tooth replacement in mind.

Tips for Prevention of Tooth Erosion

To prevent tooth erosion, we recommend the following:

  • Be wary when drinking or eating the above listed substances
  • Have a glass of water handy to rinse your mouth and to drink
  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day
  • Floss at least every night
  • Visit your dentist twice a year for regular check-ups

Learn More About Your Dental Care Options

To learn more about dental erosion and your many options out there for improving your overall dental health, be sure tocontact our Las Vegas cosmetic dentistry center today. The entire team here at our practice is eager to meet you in person and help you achieve great dental health and wellness.