What Causes Dental Erosion and How to Prevent It

The problem of dental erosion affects the enamel of the teeth, and its harmful effects not only affect esthetics, but as a dentist in Marco Island will tell you, it can also have a negative influence on other health factors, such as dental sensitivity. Below we will identify the main causes of dental erosion and what can be done to prevent its appearance.

What Is Dental Erosion?

Dental erosion is one of the different types of dental wear that exist and two types can be distinguished:

Intrinsic Erosion

When the cause of the erosion is produced by the human organism itself, such as gastric acids.

Extrinsic Erosion

When it’s caused by external agents, such as the ingestion of certain medications, or because of certain eating habits that are detrimental to dental health, such as a diet excessive in sugars.

What Are the Symptoms of Dental Erosion?

Tooth Discoloration

If the enamel is damaged due to dental erosion, the natural white of the teeth is lost, giving way to a more yellowish tone.

Dental Sensitivity

As the dentin is exposed to dental erosion, the teeth become much more sensitive to external agents.

Tooth Wear

Teeth may change shape, become more rounded or small cracks could appear.

How Can I Prevent It?

Maintaining proper oral hygiene, using toothbrushes with medium or low hardness filaments, dental floss, toothpaste with low abrasiveness, and high fluoride content. Reduce as much as possible the intake of sugary, carbonated, or acidic beverages, in addition, go to dental checkups for early diagnosis of any type of pathology, such as dental erosion.

Need a Dentist in Marco Island? We Are Here for You!

Dental erosion is a condition that grows as time passes, which is why it’s important to schedule periodic check-ups to address it before it turns into a bigger problem. Here at Island Paradise Dental, we are ready to assist you. Call us now!