Tooth Enamel Erosion And Restoration: What You Should Know

Dental Restoration

Here’s a quick question that could come in handy during your next game of Trivial Pursuit: In the human body, what is the strongest tissue? Answer: Enamel. Compared to the bone, it’s even stronger! Enamel protects your teeth from both high and low temperatures, harsh chemicals, etc. as a translucent outer layer. During daily activities, enamel protects your teeth when you’re crunching foods, chewing, and biting. At night, if you grind your teeth, your gums and teeth are protected from impact – for the most part.

However… the enamel on your teeth is not indestructible. Unfortunately, tooth enamel erosion and restoration may be something that you’ll need to think about in the future.

Here, we will look at the erosion of enamel, what may cause it, and its treatment.

Enamel Erosion – What Is It?

When the enamel on your teeth is slowly eaten away by acid, this is referred to as enamel erosion. Enamel cannot be regenerated by living cells because there are none present in enamel. Once it’s damaged, cracked, or eroded, it (and the protection it offers) can only be restored by the proper procedures a dentist can offer.

This is why, if at all possible, the natural protection offered by enamel should be safeguarded, and erosion of tooth enamel avoided at all costs.

Tooth Enamel Erosion – Common Causes

Problems with enamel erosion can occur due to various situations and substances. Here are some examples.

A harmful habit, your environment, and more can cause enamel erosion. These environmental erosion causes include the following:

  • Improper dental hygiene-related plaque buildup
  • Frequent vomiting
  • Biting hard objects (fingernails, ice cubes, etc.)
  • Improper flossing or brushing too hard
  • Grinding or clenching teeth
  • Acid reflux or gastrointestinal issues
  • Low saliva production or dry mouth

Due to their acidic quality, erosion can be created by various substances. Some of these can include the following:

  • Certain medications (or medical treatments)
  • Vitamin C in excess
  • Some soft drinks
  • Certain starchy and sugary foods
  • Some fruit drinks

Enamel Erosion Treatments

Again, since enamel can’t fix itself, the process of erosion can’t be reversed, but you can lessen future effects.

For prevention:

  • Regular, properly executed flossing and brushing
  • Regular dental cleanings/visits
  • Avoid damaging substances and acidic foods
  • Discontinue detrimental habits

Treatments (depending on your dentist):

Keep in mind that early diagnosis of enamel erosion is key to preventing further erosion and may result in a better outcome.

Find Out What to Do About Tooth Erosion at Real Smile Dental

Are you experiencing tooth erosion? Are you interested in speaking to a professional about restoration? We have just the people for you to talk to at Real Smile Dental. We are Bergen County’s premier dental practice.

A vast array of dental services are offered at our location. With knowledgeable dentists, dental assistants, hygienists, and administrative staff members ready to provide high-quality care and customer service, we built our practice around the needs of our patients.

We can be of assistance with oral surgery, periodontics, prevention and cleanings, all emergency dental procedures, dental restoration, orthodontic treatment, and cosmetic dentistry. Need a dentist? Contact us today by phone at 201-941-8877 or use our convenient online form to open the lines of communication.

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