Enamel Erosion Causes and Treatment

Before we begin to tackle the topic of enamel erosion, you may be wondering what tooth enamel is and why it’s essential. Enamel is the outer layer of your teeth, which is made of a dense mineral that protects your teeth against chemical and physical damage. Enamel is a very tough and hard protective coating of your teeth. It is actually the hardest part of the human body, but certain chemicals and physical factors can damage the enamel. When the enamel is worn away, the dentine is exposed, and this is what we call as enamel erosion.

Enamel erosion or dental erosion can cause symptoms like pain and sensitivity. It can also cause teeth discoloration and changes the shape of your teeth.

Acid is one of the main culprits of enamel erosion. It eats away the tooth enamel causing it to erode over time. Certain factors contribute to acid production in the mouth. Dry mouth, gastrointestinal tract issues like acid reflux, grinding of teeth, consuming acidic food and drinks, and genetics are some of the factors that cause acid to increase in the mouth, which leads to enamel erosion.

If you are experiencing enamel erosion, treatment will depend on how progressive the erosion is and if surrounding tissues are involved. Sometimes a filling may be placed to protect the tooth and improve the appearance of your teeth. If enamel erosion is extensive, your dentist might suggest a dental crown.

If you have enamel erosion, consult our dental team at Brown’s Line Dental as soon as you can. Our office is located in Etobicoke, Ontario.

-The Browns Line Dental Team