Understanding Enamel Erosion
Although tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it is not invincible. It is the body’s armor, protecting the vulnerable inner tooth surface from all the chemicals we take into our body in the form of food and drinks. When the enamel starts to wear and show signs of that wear, it is referred to as enamel erosion. Enamel erosion stages can range from mild to severe and can occur on any or all teeth. Cracking, sensitivity, discoloration, rough enamel surface, and pitting and holes are all signs of enamel erosion. Because enamel does not contain living cells to allow it to regenerate itself, it’s vital to address enamel erosion on teeth early to prevent further damage and tooth loss.
Enamel Erosion Causes
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High carbohydrate drinks
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Drinking soda
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Frequent meals
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Grinding teeth
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Chronic acid reflux
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Dry mouth (any cause)
Enamel Erosion Prevention
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Diet/lifestyle changes
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Mouthguard for nighttime grinding
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Treating reflux
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Treating dry mouth
Enamel Erosion Treatment Options
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Remineralizing therapy to repair and preserve existing enamel
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Bonding resin on damaged teeth to repair and improve function
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Veneers or crowns to restore function to severely eroded teeth
Common Questions About Enamel Erosion:
How can I tell if I have enamel erosion or just stains on my teeth?
If your teeth are starting to look yellowed or browned and you have sensitive teeth, you should probably suspect enamel erosion. You may not be able to tell what is causing your teeth to change color on your own, but staining is worth monitoring to make sure it’s not a symptom of a bigger problem. Take your concerns to your dentist if you want to be sure.
Will erosion get better on its own?
No. Enamel cannot grow new cells, so it cannot repair itself without outside help. It is far more likely that it will continue to get worse on its own because the conditions that caused it to occur in the first place haven’t changed.
What foods are most likely to cause enamel erosion?
Foods that contain a lot of simple sugars and starches cause erosion frequently. Foods with a high acid content also tend to contribute to enamel erosion, as does soda and fruit juice.
CariFree Products to Prevent Decay
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What Customers Are Saying
“I struggled with bad bacteria in my mouth until my dentist recommended the CariFree treatment program. I’ve continued rinsing with the CTx3 Rinse twice a day for almost 2 years now with no decay problems! The citrus flavor is great – very happy with this product!”Maintenance Rinse | Anti-Cavity Fluoride Mouthwash
How CariFree is Different
CariFree products can help interrupt the disease process a number of ways, preventing cavities from ever forming. The unique pH correcting formula of CariFree products helps make the oral environment unfavorable for acid-loving, caries causing bacteria. The high pH from the CariFree system also protects tooth enamel from having minerals dissolved away in acidic conditions. The products contain nano hydroxyapatite, which the teeth can use to repair missing minerals from the enamel, particularly in the high pH environment the products create. Xylitol, a natural, non-nutritive sweetener, has several dental benefits. It makes bacteria less able to stick together in a tough to remove biofilm. Caries-causing bacteria also eat the xylitol but cannot use it for energy or to reproduce. So, the bacteria starve to death while eating xylitol.
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