What Is Dental Erosion?
Dental erosion is the gradual wearing away of the tooth enamel caused by acids. Unlike tooth decay, dental erosion is not caused by bacteria, but instead by acidic foods, drinks, or stomach acid coming into contact with the teeth over time.
At Franklin House Dental Practice, we regularly help patients in Gillingham who are experiencing signs of dental erosion and enamel damage. Early diagnosis is important because enamel does not naturally grow back once it has been lost.
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What Causes Dental Erosion?
There are several common causes of dental erosion, including:
Acidic Foods & Drinks
Frequent consumption of acidic products can weaken enamel over time. Common examples include:
- Fizzy drinks
- Sports drinks
- Citrus fruits
- Fruit juices
- Wine
- Energy drinks
Many people are surprised by how quickly acidic drinks can affect their teeth, especially when consumed regularly throughout the day.
Acid Reflux & Medical Conditions
Conditions such as acid reflux, GERD, or frequent vomiting can expose teeth to stomach acid, leading to significant enamel erosion.
Dry Mouth
Saliva helps neutralise acids in the mouth. Reduced saliva flow can increase the risk of dental erosion.
Teeth Grinding
While grinding itself causes wear rather than erosion, it can worsen the appearance and sensitivity of already weakened enamel.
Signs & Symptoms of Dental Erosion
Dental erosion often develops slowly, meaning many people do not realise it is happening until noticeable damage has occurred.
Common symptoms include:
- Increased tooth sensitivity
- Yellowing teeth
- Rounded tooth edges
- Transparent-looking teeth
- Cracks or rough edges
- Pain when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods
If you notice these symptoms, it is important to book an appointment with experienced dentists in Gillingham before the damage becomes more severe.
Why Is Enamel Important?
Tooth enamel is the hard outer protective layer of your teeth. It is the strongest substance in the human body and plays a vital role in protecting the softer inner parts of the tooth from damage, sensitivity, and decay.
Every day, your enamel helps shield your teeth from:
- Hot and cold temperatures
- Sugary and acidic foods
- Everyday chewing and biting pressure
- Harmful bacteria and plaque buildup
When enamel begins to wear away through dental erosion, the underlying dentine becomes exposed. Dentine is much softer and more sensitive than enamel, which is why many patients experience discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet foods.
Unlike other parts of the body, enamel cannot repair or regenerate itself once it has been lost. This makes early detection and prevention extremely important. Without treatment, enamel erosion can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, discolouration, cracks, thinning teeth, and a higher risk of further dental problems.
At Franklin House Dental Practice, we help patients in Gillingham protect their enamel and maintain healthy teeth through preventative care, professional advice, and restorative dental treatments where needed.
Dental Erosion Treatment Options
At Franklin House Dental Practice, treatment for dental erosion depends on the severity of the damage.
Preventive Advice
For mild erosion, lifestyle and dietary changes may be enough to prevent further enamel loss.
We may recommend:
- Reducing acidic drinks
- Using fluoride toothpaste
- Drinking water after acidic foods
- Avoiding brushing immediately after consuming acid
- Wearing a night guard if grinding is present
Composite Bonding
Composite bonding can restore the appearance of worn teeth and protect exposed areas.
What is composite bonding?
Composite bonding is a cosmetic dental treatment used to repair and improve the appearance of damaged or worn teeth. A tooth-coloured resin material is carefully applied, shaped, and polished to restore areas affected by dental erosion.
Composite bonding can help:
- Protect exposed areas of the tooth
- Reduce sensitivity
- Improve the shape and appearance of teeth
- Restore worn enamel surfaces
The treatment is usually minimally invasive and often completed in a single visit, making it a popular option for patients looking to improve both the function and appearance of their smile. Get in touch with Gillingham Dentists at Franklin House for more information today.
Dental Crowns or Veneers
For more advanced erosion, crowns or veneers may be recommended to rebuild strength and improve aesthetics.
Sensitivity Treatments
Specialist treatments and products can help reduce discomfort caused by exposed dentine.
How to Prevent Dental Erosion
Preventing dental erosion is often much easier than repairing the damage later.
Helpful prevention tips include:
- Use a straw for acidic drinks
- Limit sugary and fizzy beverages
- Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing after acidic foods
- Attend regular dental check-ups
- Drink plenty of water
- Use fluoride products recommended by your dentist
Regular dental examinations allow early signs of enamel wear to be spotted before significant damage occurs.
When Should You See a Dentist in Kent?
You should arrange a dental appointment if you notice:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Changes in tooth shape
- Teeth appearing thinner or more yellow
- Discomfort when eating or drinking
Early intervention can help preserve your natural teeth and prevent more complex treatment later.
Dental Erosion Treatment in Gillingham
If you are concerned about dental erosion or tooth sensitivity, the team at Franklin House Dental Practice can help assess your teeth and recommend the most suitable treatment options.
Our experienced dentists in Gillingham provide professional advice and personalised care to help protect your smile for the future.
