Potential Causes Of Enamel Erosion

Even seemingly innocent habits can damage the protective enamel of our teeth!

The enamel part of our teeth is the visible exterior that acts as a protective layer for the more vulnerable inner parts of our teeth. When the enamel becomes damaged, whether through breakage or erosion, the dentin layer underneath becomes more accessible to bacteria and acids that can be very harmful to teeth.

Whilst visiting The Dental Centre Bedford should mean that the tooth can be restored before too much damage has been done, it is obviously preferable to keep the enamel as strong as possible by avoiding factors that may compromise it.

With this in mind, below we have compiled a list of some common factors which can contribute to enamel erosion, and hopefully our Bedford patients will find it useful.

Brushing our teeth too hard

This one may come as a bit of a surprise to people who have been told to ‘brush their teeth well’. It may be hard to imagine that soft bristles can wear away a hard material like enamel. This process does not happen quickly, but over longer periods of time, and, in the same way that water can smooth rocks, our enamel can gradually wear away, exposing the dentin layer underneath. To avoid this, simply make sure that you brush correctly, using a gentle circular motion. Some electric toothbrushes have pressure sensors which will cut out of you brush too hard. It may be worth considering purchasing one of these.

Acidic drinks

Sugary fruit drinks and energy drinks are especially bad for our teeth. In addition to the sugar content, many are based on acidic fruits; oranges being a common one. These acids will damage the teeth, especially if consumed regularly and over a long period of time. Try to reduce your consumption of these drinks, balancing them with water or dilute, sugar-free alternatives.

Sipping our Drinks

It is not just what we drink, but how we drink it that can affect the enamel. Whilst water can be drunk how and as often as you like with no ill effects, any drink that contains sugar or acids should be drunk carefully. One of the things that many of us are guilty of is holding the drink in our mouths for a short while, before swallowing. Whilst we may do this to get the maximum taste, it also allows the damaging sugars and acids more time to come into contact with the teeth. Try not to sip and hold, but instead swallow the liquid more or less straight away.

Grinding Teeth

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, will wear away the enamel on our teeth. Sometimes this can even cause teeth to break or shatter, depending on how hard we grind. Where teeth overlap, such as may be the case with the front teeth, erosion is more likely. Having your teeth straightened and addressing ‘bite’ issues can help to overcome this damage to some degree, although addressing the teeth grinding habit is the only way to prevent this type of damage in the long term.

Medication side effects

Most medicines have some side effects, varying in degrees of seriousness. Teeth discolouration and enamel wear are two side effects that are not uncommon in some types of medication. Of course, you should not stop taking any medication, especially if it is for a serious illness, but you may wish to discuss with your doctor if there are any alternatives available.

Good oral care will help you to protect your teeth, both at home, and at the dentist. We strongly recommend regular check ups with our Bedford dentists, along with professional cleaning by our hygienist. If you would like to make an appointment with us, please call our team on 01234 819868.