Acid erosion of enamel is a serious problem that is affecting an increasing number of people. If left untreated, it can lead to irreversible damage to teeth and, as a consequence, to their loss. It is worth knowing what acid erosion of enamel is, what its causes are and how it can be treated. At our dental clinic in Mokotow, Warsaw, we offer comprehensive treatment of acid erosion of enamel, tailored to the individual needs of the patient.
What is acid erosion of enamel?
Acid erosion of enamel is a chemical process involving the gradual dissolution and damage of the hard tissues of the tooth, initially the enamel and, in an advanced stage, also the dentin. Cavities resulting from erosion have a characteristic appearance - they are flat, smooth and often imperceptible to the naked eye. This process occurs under the influence of acids, which can come from both outside and inside the body.
Acid erosion of the enamel leads to a weakening of the tooth structure, increasing its sensitivity and susceptibility to mechanical damage. At an advanced stage, teeth become dull, rough and even transparent at the edges. If left untreated, enamel erosion can lead to exposed dentin and, in extreme cases, even tooth fracture.
What can cause acid erosion of enamel?
The causes of acidic enamel erosion can be divided into extrinsic and intrinsic causes. External factors mainly include a diet rich in acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, fruit juices, fizzy drinks, wine or vinegar. Consuming large quantities of these products, especially between meals, significantly increases the risk of enamel erosion.
The most common intrinsic causes include diseases with frequent vomiting (e.g. bulimia, gastro-oesophageal reflux), as well as disorders of saliva secretion (xerostomia). Reduced saliva in the mouth impairs its protective and buffering functions, which promotes the development of enamel erosion.
Other risk factors include taking certain medications (e.g. iron preparations), exposure to acids in the working environment, as well as eating disorders and addictions (alcoholism, drug addiction).
What are the symptoms of acid erosion of enamel?
In its early stages, acid erosion of enamel is often asymptomatic. The first symptoms that should draw our attention are:
- Tooth hypersensitivity to thermal (hot, cold) and chemical (sweet, sour) stimuli
- Dulling and roughening of the enamel surface
- Change in shape and translucency of teeth, especially at incisal edges
- Exposure of dentin at an advanced stage
- Toothache and tenderness
Symptoms of acid erosion of enamel most commonly appear on the labial surfaces of anterior teeth and the chewing surfaces of posterior teeth. In the case of intrinsic erosion, lesions may also be located on the palatal and lingual surfaces.
How do you undertake the treatment of damaged teeth?
Treatment of acid erosion of enamel should be comprehensive and include both preventive and restorative measures. It is crucial to eliminate the cause of erosion by modifying diet, treating systemic diseases or changing habits. Composite fillings, onlays, overlays and, in advanced cases, crowns or veneers are used to restore damaged tissue. It is also important to reduce tooth sensitivity by using toothpastes for sensitive teeth, varnishes and fluoride gels.
Prevention of acidic enamel erosion includes:
- Limit the consumption of acidic foods and drinks
- Sipping acidic drinks through a straw, avoiding rinsing teeth with them
- Waiting min. 30 minutes with brushing your teeth after eating acidic foods
- Use of toothpastes with fluorine, calcium and phosphate compounds
- Regular dental check-ups
Remember that acid erosion of enamel is an irreversible process. The earlier it is detected and appropriate treatment is undertaken, the greater the chance of preserving natural teeth. Do not underestimate the first symptoms and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups.
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