Did you know that tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body? Your teeth are protected by a natural outer shell that prevents tooth decay and maintains a strong structure. Tooth enamel plays a crucial role in protecting your teeth from decay and damage. If you start to experience tooth enamel loss, then it could lead to the need for tooth restoration due to the damage that occurs over time.
The reality is that tooth enamel erosion is irreversible. Once the enamel is gone, there isn’t a way to “grow” it again. So, every person needs to be proactive in avoiding the loss of dental enamel, because the only way to repair worn enamel is with modern dental treatments.
What Destroys Tooth Enamel?
Not only does lifestyle play a role in your oral health, but genetics also contribute to your risk of enamel decay. Here are a few of the most important contributing factors that can affect how quickly you lose tooth enamel:
Dietary Acids
The things you are eating and drinking can start to erode tooth enamel, especially ingredients that are highly acidic. Some of the most common offenders include:
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits, etc.)
- Wine
- Vinegar
- Soda
It’s ok to eat these foods occasionally. Remember that the frequency and duration of how often you are eating these foods will affect the level of enamel damage that occurs. For example, if you are eating highly acidic foods often, then you might be at a higher risk of experiencing enamel loss and tooth decay.
So, moderation is key when you are consuming these types of foods and drinks. Also, if you eat a meal or have a highly acidic drink, then it’s best to brush your teeth right away. At a minimum, rinse your mouth with water to reduce the acidity in your mouth.
Sugary Foods and Drinks
It’s fun to satisfy your sweet tooth with a dessert or candy. But keep in mind that the bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar. The byproduct is an acidic environment that can result in tooth enamel loss.
If you are snacking often and choosing foods that are high in sugar, then you are increasing your risk of enamel damage, which increases your risk of cavities.
This doesn’t mean you can never enjoy your favorite cookie or order dessert after dinner. As with the acidic foods mentioned above, moderation is key. When you choose to eat sugary or starchy foods, ensure you are proactive about brushing your teeth after the meal.
Dry Mouth
Having a dry mouth is more than an inconvenience… it can also speed up enamel damage. The saliva in your mouth offers protective benefits to neutralize enamel-damaging acids and re-mineralize enamel. So, your risk of tooth damage goes up if you have decreased saliva flow.
Usually, the best solution is to identify and treat the underlying cause of dry mouth. Common causes of dry mouth include medications, dehydration, and medical conditions.
Solutions for dry mouth include drinking more water and chewing sugar-free gum. Your dentist might also recommend the use of saliva substitutes when needed.
Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions can lead to tooth enamel loss, including:
- Acid Reflux: When stomach acid comes up the esophagus, it can reach the mouth and start to erode tooth enamel.
- Eating Disorders: Frequent vomiting exposes teeth to stomach acid, which can increase the risk of tooth damage.
- Medications: The use of specific prescription medications can increase the risk of oral health problems, often because dry mouth might be a side effect of the medication. Common offenders include antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications.
- Other Health Conditions: Other medical conditions can also contribute to oral health problems, including diabetes, Sjogren’s Syndrome, and cancer treatments.
Physical Factors
Certain habits can result in worn tooth enamel. For example, if you have TMJ and often grind your teeth, then it wears down the enamel over time. This issue typically only affects the chewing surfaces of the teeth, although grinding and clenching can eventually cause cracks and chips in the teeth as they become weaker.
Poor brushing habits can take a toll on the health of your tooth enamel. Infrequent brushing causes a buildup of plaque and tartar that is acidic and can wear down the enamel and lead to cavities. Also, aggressive brushing or using abrasive toothpaste can damage the enamel over time.
Consider any other habits or activities that might wear down your teeth, such as chewing on ice, nail-biting, or using your teeth as tools (to open packages, etc.). These seemingly small things can definitely add up to serious tooth damage over time.
Tooth Enamel Loss Timeline
To make it easier to understand, it can be helpful to break tooth enamel loss into three stages:
- Early Stage Enamel Loss: At this point, the enamel is starting to break down a little bit. You might have increased tooth sensitivity or notice white spots on the teeth. In the earliest stages, it is sometimes possible to reverse these symptoms with remineralization using fluoride treatments.
- Moderate Enamel Loss: As tooth enamel loss progresses, the teeth might start to look yellow because the underlying dentin becomes more visible. Also, the teeth can appear to be more translucent at the edge since the enamel is thinning. Some patients have indentations in their teeth and sensitivity increases. Treatment options include fluoride, sealants, and bonding to protect the teeth from further damage.
- Severe Enamel Loss: At this stage, dental interventions are necessary and important due to the damage that is occurring to your teeth. Weakened enamel can cause the teeth to fracture, leading to chips and cracks. Teeth are highly susceptible to tooth decay, the roots of the tooth can be exposed, and you might notice changes in the shape and appearance of your teeth. It’s essential to talk to your dentist about restorative treatments, such as crowns, fillings, and more.
FAQ About Tooth Enamel Loss
Here are answers to the most common questions we hear about tooth enamel loss:
At what stage is tooth decay irreversible?
When the decay progresses beyond the enamel and reaches the dentin layer, then it is irreversible and requires dental interventions.
How long does it take for enamel to deteriorate?
Deterioration can occur over years, or it might be more rapid depending on diet, oral hygiene, and current medical condition.
How do I know if all my enamel is gone?
It’s rare for a patient to lose all of their enamel. If you are experiencing tooth enamel loss, then signs include yellowing teeth, extreme sensitivity, translucency, and/or changes in the shape and length of the teeth.
What does damaged enamel look like?
If your tooth enamel is damaged, then you might notice visible signs such as yellowing, white spots, chips, indentations, or translucent areas of the teeth.
Prevent Tooth Enamel Loss with Regular Dental Visits
The best way to protect your teeth is by scheduling regular dental visits with our team at Norwich Aesthetic Dentistry; Please call our office at (860) 889-6445.