Understanding and Preventing Enamel Erosion

You may have heard us mention “enamel wear” or “enamel erosion” and be wondering exactly what that means. Well, we’re here to fill you in! 

Firstly, what is enamel? Simply put, it’s the hard, white, protective coating on your teeth – the part you can see. It’s the hardest substance in the human body, surpassing even bone.

Alas, despite being so hard, it is not entirely invincible. Certain lifestyle factors like diet teeth grinding, dry mouth, or acid reflux can gradually wear it down – a process we refer to as enamel erosion.

The symptoms of tooth enamel erosion are varied. They can range from heightened sensitivity to the appearance of cracks or chips, discoloration, rough edges, or even fractures. For severe enamel erosion, treatments such as bonding, veneers, or crowns can repair the affected teeth and prevent further decay. However, we believe prevention is always better than cure. Here are some manageable and proactive steps we can all take to slow down enamel erosion:

1. Fluoride is your friend: Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, can help to rebuild weakened enamel and prevent tooth decay. Using fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash can go a long way in preserving your enamel’s strength.
2. Eat smart: Crunchy fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, and celery stimulate saliva production, neutralizing the acids in your mouth. Not to mention, they are a fantastic, healthy snack. Win-win!
3. Mindful drinking: Highly acidic drinks like sodas, sports drinks, or citrus juices can lead to enamel wear. Enjoying them occasionally is okay, but consider using a straw to limit their contact with your teeth. This small change can have a big impact on preventing enamel erosion.
4. Time your brushing: Wait at least 30 minutes after consuming acidic food or drinks before brushing your teeth. This allows saliva, our body’s natural defense against acid, to do its job and neutralize your mouth’s pH levels.
5. Pick your paste: Use a low abrasion toothpaste like Pronamel and to try and avoid whitening toothpaste like Crest 3D White.
6. Invest in a nightguard:  If teeth grinding is an issue for you, a nightguard can be an excellent protective measure.
7. Visit us regularly: Regular dental check-ups can help detect early signs of enamel erosion and mitigate it proactively.

Enamel erosion is a slow process, so even if you’ve noticed some early signs, you can prevent it from worsening. So, let’s view enamel erosion as a motivator to improve our oral health routines. With the right knowledge, a balanced routine, and regular dental visits, you can help ensure your enamel continues serving you well.

*The information contained in this post should not be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately licensed health care provider. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Although we attempt to provide accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee is made to that effect. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or dental condition.