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Your teeth are constantly fighting against bacteria, acidic and sugary substances, a variety of temperatures, and injuries. Your tooth enamel is the hard outer layer of the tooth that protects the soft, more sensitive inner layers of the tooth. Without your enamel, the dentin beneath it would not have the protection it needs. While enamel loss occurs slowly over time, it can still be quite a serious problem. Continue reading to learn why enamel wear in South Austin occurs, why it’s a big deal, and what you can do to combat it.

WHAT CAUSES ENAMEL EROSION?

The most common cause of enamel erosion is the acid found in different foods and drinks that you consume regularly. One of the roles that saliva plays is neutralizing the harmful acids in your mouth, but if you are consuming too many acidic foods and beverages, the outer layer of your teeth will wear away over time. Here are a few other ways that this can occur:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism)
• Chronic acid reflux
• Low salivary flow
• Using certain medications regularly, like antihistamines and aspirin
• Eating disorders, like bulimia

WHY IS ENAMEL EROSION HARMFUL?

If you have enamel erosion, you are likely to experience all sorts of additional oral health issues. The sensitive part of your teeth is then exposed to destructive substances. Here are just some of the symptoms you could encounter:

• Increased sensitivity
• Cracks and chips
• Discoloration
• Indentations or “cups” on the surface of your teeth
• Increased tooth decay
• Rough edges on the teeth

In the end, if you leave this issue untreated, you could be experiencing oral pain, tooth loss, infection, and even gum disease.

WHAT CAN BE DONE TO PREVENT ENAMEL WEAR?

Once enamel is lost, it cannot be replaced, but weakened enamel can be salvaged through a process called remineralization. This replaced the minerals in the enamel in order to make it strong again. The best way to do this is by using fluoridated products and consuming foods that are high in calcium. Fluoride acts as a barrier between your teeth and destructive substances. Calcium is needed in order to build and maintain strong bones and teeth.

In order to prevent enamel wear from occurring, remember to always brush twice a date with a fluoridated toothpaste and floss daily. Adding a fluoridated mouthwash is also a great additional step. Remember to schedule regular appointments with your cosmetic dentist in South Austin. This way, issues can be treated early on before progressing to later stages.

Enamel may be the strongest part of your whole body, but it isn’t completely indestructible. Be sure that you are always taking steps to keep your smile strong and healthy.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Jack Fan earned his doctorate from the New York University College of Dentistry and completed a one-year General Practice Residency at Long Island Jewish Hospital. He is committed to attending continuing education programs in order to expand his knowledge in the field. For more ways to keep your teeth strong or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (512) 361-4288.