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Dental Erosion

CONDITIONS
Protect your enamel and restore tooth strength with advanced treatments for dental erosion.

About the treatment

Dental erosion occurs when acidic substances weaken and dissolve tooth enamel, leading to increased sensitivity, discolouration, and a higher risk of cavities. Unlike tooth decay, which is caused by bacteria, erosion results from direct contact with acids, gradually wearing down the tooth’s protective outer layer.

Once enamel is lost, it cannot regenerate, making early intervention essential to prevent further damage and restore oral health.

Symptoms of Dental Erosion

  • Increased tooth sensitivity – Discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods.
  • Teeth appearing yellow – Due to thinning enamel exposing dentin.
  • Smooth or shiny tooth surfaces – A sign of enamel loss.
  • Transparency at the edges of teeth – Indicating erosion progression.
  • Tooth fractures or cracks – Due to weakened enamel.

Causes of Dental Erosion

  • Frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks – Citrus fruits, sodas, sports drinks, and wine.
  • Acid reflux (GERD) – Stomach acids entering the mouth.
  • Brushing immediately after eating – Enamel is softer after acidic exposure.
  • Dry mouth (Xerostomia) – Reduced saliva leads to less acid neutralisation.

Diagnosis of Dental Erosion

A comprehensive dental examination can assess enamel loss. Dentists may use:

  • Visual inspection – Identifying smooth, shiny surfaces or dentin exposure.
  • Tooth sensitivity tests – Checking reactions to temperature changes.
  • Dietary and lifestyle assessment – Identifying acid-related habits.

Treatment Options for Dental Erosion

  • Strengthens weakened enamel and reduces sensitivity.
  • Helps remineralise the tooth surface.
  • Restores appearance and function of damaged teeth.
  • Protects against further enamel loss.
  • Reducing acidic food and beverage intake.
  • Using a straw for acidic drinks to minimise contact with teeth.
  • Waiting 30 minutes before brushing after eating to prevent further enamel wear.

Preventing Dental Erosion

  • Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
  • Increase water intake to rinse away acids.
  • Avoid frequent snacking on acidic foods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can enamel be restored once it's eroded?

No, but fluoride treatments and dental restorations can protect and reinforce weakened enamel.

Yes, drinking water neutralises acids and washes away harmful substances.

Some remedies, like chewing sugar-free gum, can increase saliva production, but professional treatments are best.

Early stages can be managed with fluoride treatments and lifestyle changes, but severe erosion requires restorative procedures.

Amalgam fillings contain mercury, but they are generally safe. However, if broken or leaking, they should be replaced promptly.

Yes, some whitening toothpastes contain abrasives that can further damage weakened enamel.

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Interested in a whiter smile? Contact us to discuss your options.

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