What is tooth erosion?
Erosion is the loss of tooth enamel caused by acid attack — not by
bacteria, but by acids in what we eat and drink, or from the stomach. Once enamel is dissolved it
never grows back, and the exposed dentine underneath is softer, yellower and more
sensitive.
What causes it?
- Fizzy drinks — including diet and sugar-free versions; the acid does the damage, not just the sugar
- Fruit juices and smoothies, especially citrus
- Sports and energy drinks
- Wine, cider and alcopops
- Frequent vinegar-based foods and pickles
- Acid reflux or frequent vomiting — stomach acid is highly erosive (speak to your GP as well as us)
The signs
Teeth may look yellower (dentine showing through), edges of front teeth can appear thin and
translucent or chip easily, teeth may look shorter or "cupped" on biting surfaces, and sensitivity
increases.
Protecting your enamel
- Keep acidic drinks to mealtimes only, and drink them through a straw.
- Finish meals with something alkaline like cheese or milk to neutralise acid.
- Wait an hour before brushing after anything acidic — softened enamel brushes away easily.
- Rinse with water or chew sugar-free gum after acidic food or drink.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste and don't rinse after brushing.
Swap the sip: sipping a fizzy drink over an afternoon bathes your
teeth in acid for hours. If you're going to have one, have it in one sitting, with food.
Treatment
Mild erosion often just needs monitoring and prevention. Where teeth have worn significantly we
can rebuild them with white bonding,
veneers or crowns to restore appearance and
protect what's left. Call us on 0141 554 0499.
