Tooth Enamel Erosion: What’s Eating At You?
Posted on Wed, Oct 05, 2011
As the strongest tissue in the body, tooth enamel serves an important purpose: to guard teeth from the daily stress of chewing, biting and grinding. The enamel is a semi-translucent outer shell that envelopes the vulnerable “inside parts” of the teeth, shielding them from exposure to temperature extremes and the effects of acidic foods and drinks. While enamel seems as solid as a rock, if you’ve ever had painful sensations from your tooth, you know it’s not indestructible.
Causes of Enamel Erosion
Calcium that naturally exists in your saliva neutralizes acid and protects enamel from erosion. However, a diet high in acidic content limits the saliva’s ability to perform its duties. Over time, enamel eventually wears away. Other factors can contribute to erosion—such as acid reflux, plaque, bulimia, binge drinking, bruxism (teeth grinding) and certain medications.
Symptoms of Enamel Loss
When your enamel erodes, teeth become susceptible to:
- Cavities: Bacteria thrive on sweets and starch, and can produce high levels of acid to eat away at enamel and cause decay.
- Pain: The teeth are sensitive to hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks.
- Discoloration: Teeth take on a yellowish hue because the layer underneath the enamel is exposed.
- Cracks or Dents: Small indentations, known as cupping, appear on the surface of your tooth. Teeth can also become rough and jagged.
Unlike bone, tooth enamel is not a living cell and can’t regenerate tissue on its own. So, once damage is done, the enamel is lost forever. However, your dentist can minimize the extent of the damage by recommending: 1) fluoride treatments to strength the enamel, 2) restorative procedures such as dental bonding to patch up small areas of the enamel to protect you from teeth sensitivity, or 3) dental crowns to keep already damaged teeth from cracking or breaking.
Tooth enamel erosion is preventable with good oral care and regular dental visits. If you enamel has eroded –or you want to protect your enamel for life, call the dental experts at Boston’s Smile and Skin. We can help you restore or maintain your beautiful smile—for life.