Worried about tooth enamel erosion? Padden Dental has the tips you need!
Over time the enamel or thin outer layer of your teeth can erode. But, don’t panic. Padden Dental has advice for fixing tooth enamel erosion.
First, what is enamel and why is it important?
Enamel is transparent, but it is one of the hardest materials in the human body. Think of it as a suit of armor for your teeth. Smoking cigarettes and eating certain foods can stain the enamel. Erosion is much more serious. It’s when the enamel is worn away, leaving the dentin (the white part of the tooth) exposed. Acids in the foods we eat and drink are the main culprits, but thinning enamel can be caused by:
- Drinking too many sodas or fruit drinks
- A diet with too much sugar and starches
- Dry mouth
- Family history of tooth erosion
- Teeth grinding
Some signs of enamel erosion include increased tooth sensitivity, discoloring, chips or cracks to the tooth’s surface. You may also experience more cavities. Our professional, friendly staff at Padden Dental offers these solutions to fixing tooth enamel erosion.
- Rid your diet of highly acidic foods.
- Rinse your mouth with water after eating/drinking these foods.
- Chew sugar-free gum between meals to keep saliva flowing.
- Ask us about fluoride mouthwash or sealants to ward off tooth decay.
- Come in for a visit. We can assess the level of erosion and give you a plan of action.
Enamel loss, although preventable is not reversible. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. Treatments vary. If enamel loss is severe, it can require a crown. This can protect the tooth for years to come.
To learn more about treating tooth erosion, be sure to contact Padden Dental in Vancouver, WA, today.