The problems resulting from cavities are well-documented. But today, dentists are placing more focus on the damage that can be caused by dental erosion. Our increased consumption of fruity drinks, soda and energy drinks causes an increase in the number of patients who are experiencing the negative results of this excess.
Since dental enamel is made of minerals, cavities result from a known as demineralization. When you consume these sweet drinks, waste products created by bacteria consume these sugars contain the acids that cause demineralization. When these acids remain on the teeth they start producing tooth decay within minutes.
Most of us have experienced cavities, but left untreated over a long period of time, a simple cavity can result in the complete destruction of the tooth structure. With the increased consumption of soda, fruit juices and energy drinks our Manhattan Beach Cosmetic Dentist office is seeing an increase in the number of patients with dental erosion. While sugar is the most common cause of dental erosion, some other causes are:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Consuming sour foods or candies
- Dry mouth or low saliva volume
- Acid reflux disease (GERD), or heartburn
If you experience sensitivity when eating hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks you may have dental erosion. Also, yellowing of the enamel indicates that it is thinning and exposing the yellow dentin beneath. Dental erosion can literally destroy your teeth over time if not addressed, and if it reaches this point, tooth extraction and costly dental prosthetics may be necessary.
Diligent oral hygiene habits and regular visits to your dentist are the best defense against the destruction caused by dental erosion. Your Manhattan Beach Cosmetic Dentist is trained to detect signs of dental erosion and take the necessary steps to arrest and reverse its damage. If the enamel has sustained significant cosmetic damage, veneers, either porcelain or Lumineers, may be recommended to protect your teeth and restore your healthy smile.
