Tooth enamel -the outer layer of teeth- is known as the strongest tissue in the human body -as per detailed dental learning-, even stronger than bones or steel. Despite being this strong and hard, it can get damaged and lead to enamel erosion. Such damaged enamel causes many further dental problems. 

Some common reasons for tooth enamel loss along with detailed dental information, are discussed briefly below.

Causes of Enamel Erosion

Acidic Foods

Eating an excessive amount of acidic foods like- grapes, oranges, strawberries or lemons can risk your teeth enamel. Try to limit eating and drinking acidic foods or drinks to prevent your teeth from decaying. You can mix up water with these foods to minimize the amount of acid. 

There are some other foods that can damage your teeth enamel and also stain them. Such as- coffee, ketchup, wine, pickle and some other things like these. Try not to consume these too often to protect your teeth.

Gastro-Esophageal Reflex Disease (GRED)

Inside the human body, there is a pipe called the esophagus, that connects the mouth and stomach. When someone gets GRED, the stomach acids flow backward and reach the mouth through the esophagus. These acids also cause damage to teeth enamel.

Xerostomia or Dry Mouth

The saliva you have inside your mouth helps to remove bacteria and food debris from the mouth. This also protects teeth from enamel erosion by neutralising the acids. If you have issues like dry mouth, then enamel damage on your teeth occurs easily. Factors as- diabetes, smoking, chemotherapy or HIV causes dryness of mouth.

Poor Oral Hygiene

If you don’t brush and floss your teeth regularly, then bacteria builds up there and leads to plaque and then enamel erosion. You must brush your teeth after an hour of eating something sugary or acidic if you don’t want to have teeth with enamel loss. You can check our previous blog on oral hygiene to have more detailed dental information. 

Eating Disorder

If you have an eating disorder and you don’t eat properly, then lack of nutrition may cause enamel erosion. 

Bruxism

Bruxism means teeth grinding and people do this continuously while they are stressed or anxious. If you do this too often, then this can also be a reason for tooth enamel loss.

Symptoms of Enamel Erosion

The common symptoms of tooth enamel erosion are as follows:

1. Sensitivity

2. Discomfort  and pain

3. Discoloration of teeth

4. Shiny teeth

5. Crack in the teeth.

If you notice any of these symptoms, have a dentist appointment and take proper treatment for tooth enamel restoration or teeth enamel repair at an early stage. 

Preventive Measures

Maintain the following detailed dental tips to prevent enamel erosion-

1. Minimize having acidic and sugary foods or drinks.

2. Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco.

3. Wear a mouth-guard in case of having bruxism.

4. Brush and floss your teeth regularly and properly.

5. Have regular dental check-ups.

Detailed Dental Information on Treatments Available for Tooth Enamel Restoration

The available treatments for tooth enamel restoration are:

• Porcelain Veneers.
• Dental Bonding.
• Inlay or Onlay.
• Dental Crown.

Consult with an expert dentist to decide which treatment is appropriate for your condition. Feel free to contact Next Generation Dental to have an appointment. Our highly efficient dentists will provide you with a proper plan and do the necessary treatment if required; otherwise detailed dental instructions for preventing tooth enamel damage will be given.