What is Tooth Erosion?

What exactly is tooth erosion?

Tooth erosion, also known as dental erosion, is the loss of tooth enamel caused by acid attack. Enamel is the hard, protective coating of the tooth, which protects the sensitive dentine underneath. When enamel is worn away, the dentine underneath is exposed, which may lead to pain and sensitivity.

How can one identify tooth erosion?

Tooth erosion may present several signs and symptoms including:

Sensitivity: As the enamel wears away, teeth can become increasingly sensitive to temperatures and certain foods.
Discoloration: Dentine is yellower than enamel, and as it becomes more exposed, the teeth can appear discoloured.
Rounded teeth: Teeth may have a rounded or “sand-blasted” look.
Transparency: Front teeth may appear slightly transparent near the biting edges.
Cracks: Small cracks and roughness may appear at the edges of the teeth.

How is tooth erosion different from tooth decay?

Tooth erosion is caused by acid wearing away the enamel. Tooth decay, on the other hand, is the result of bacteria in plaque breaking down sugar in foods to produce acids, which can then create a hole (cavity) in the tooth.

Can tooth erosion be prevented?

Yes, tooth erosion can often be prevented by:

Reducing the consumption of acidic foods and drinks.
Rinsing the mouth with water after having acidic foods or drinks.
Drinking acidic drinks quickly and through a straw to minimise contact with teeth.
Chewing sugar-free gum to increase saliva flow in the mouth.
Waiting at least an hour to brush teeth after consuming acidic foods or drinks to allow the enamel to remineralise.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste to protect the enamel.

What causes tooth erosion?

The most common cause of erosion is by acidic foods and drinks. The acid in these substances can dissolve the crystals that make up the enamel, leading to its erosion.

Other causes include:

Stomach acids, from conditions like gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) or vomiting, which can also erode tooth enamel.
Certain medications, particularly aspirin and antihistamines.
Acidic fruit juices and fizzy drinks, particularly those with added citric or phosphoric acid.
Dry mouth or low salivary flow (xerostomia).
A diet high in sugar and starches.
Environmental factors such as friction, wear and tear, stress, and possibly the way teeth are brushed.

What are the treatment options for tooth erosion?

Treatment for tooth erosion can vary depending on the severity.

Options may include:

Bonding: a resin applied to the teeth to protect the enamel and improve appearance.
Veneers: custom-made facings that cover the front of the teeth.
Crowns: a cap that covers the entire tooth to restore its shape and function.

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of tooth erosion, it’s essential to seek professional advice before it leads to further complications. At Serio Dental, we can help diagnose and tailor a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Don’t let tooth erosion affect your oral health and confidence.
Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step towards preserving your smile!

Alex Ibrahim-Bennett

15:35 19 Jun 24

Had an tooth extraction due to an abcess. Was really nervous day prior and in the morning, they really made the procedure smooth and reassured me that theres nothing to worry about. 100% recommend them.

Elizabeth Hew

22:05 23 May 24

Had a great Airflow polish treatment at Serio Dental with Magda, who was very informative and friendly during the hygienist session. I was given a bamboo toothbrush and an interdental floss to take home too. All the assistants and rest of staff were lovely, and I would highly recommend the Serio Dental practice for tremendous professionalism and great service!

Sabrina Anwar Siddiqui

12:39 09 May 24

Brilliant practice, great staff!I’m quite an anxious patient but I was looked after really well and made to feel at ease.. Thankyou!

nathalie bartmann

13:51 11 Apr 24

Omar is the best dentist I have ever had, so patient and explains everything in detail. I actually enjoy going to the dentist now 😊

Ingrid Ketiny

17:12 21 Mar 24

My little sister and I had an amazing experience at Serio Dental Clinic with Dr Omar Moussati. Highly recommend their services. Very professional and friendly.

Javaid Anwar

13:46 26 Feb 24

Very polite and curtious receptionist. Very good warm atmosphere and the treatment I received from Dr. Dheepthi jana exceptional very informative throughout.

joana reis

14:11 12 Jan 24

Front desk staff made me feel so welcome, I would definitely recommend this dental practice!!

Ali Malik

12:51 04 Jan 24

So glad to have found this practice! Felt so comfortable during my initial consultation from booking in to leaving. Good vibes, no pressure. Genuinely feel like I am in the very best hands.

Kirsty

09:00 21 Dec 23

I would highly recommend coming here. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. I would like to start with thanking my hygienist for such an amazing clean just in time for Christmas. Thank you. 😊

Malgorzata Lisica

21:57 20 Dec 23

I would love to express my heartfelt gratitude for the outstanding care and service I received during my recent gum surgery at your Serio dental practice. From the initial consultation to the post-operative care, every aspect of my experience exceeded my expectations, and I am compelled to share my positive impressions.First and foremost, I want to extend my deepest appreciation to Dr Anwar. The gum surgery I underwent was a significant procedure, and I was naturally apprehensive. However, Dr Anwar not only demonstrated a high level of expertise but also a genuine concern for my well-being. The detailed explanations provided before the surgery, the patience in addressing my concerns, and the skill exhibited during the procedure were truly commendable. I felt confident and reassured under his care, and the results of the surgery have been nothing short of remarkable.Equally deserving of praise is the reception team at your practice. From the moment I entered the door, I was met with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The receptionists were not only friendly but also efficient in handling the necessary paperwork, scheduling appointments, and addressing any pre-surgery inquiries I had. Their professionalism and courtesy made the entire process smooth and stress-free.Moreover, the post-operative care and follow-up from both Dr Anwar and the reception team were exemplary. I appreciated the thorough instructions provided for at-home care, as well as the promptness in scheduling follow-up appointments. The genuine concern for my recovery and well-being did not go unnoticed, and it further solidified my confidence in choosing your dental practice for such a crucial procedure.In conclusion, I am grateful to have found a dental practice that not only excels in delivering exceptional periodontal care but also places a strong emphasis on creating a positive and patient-centered experience. I will wholeheartedly recommend your practice to my friends , confident that they will receive the same level of expertise, care, and professionalism that I did.Thank you, Dr Anwar, and the entire team, for making a potentially daunting experience a positive and successful one. I look forward to continuing my dental journey with your esteemed practice.

Georgina Ciesielska

11:15 19 Dec 23

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing exceptional service at this dental practice. The team's professionalism and friendliness were truly commendable. The availability of a diverse range of specialists ensured that my specific needs were expertly addressed. Additionally, the tasteful decor added a touch of comfort to the overall environment. I highly recommend this practice for its top-notch service and welcoming atmosphere.

Jonathan Dessart

12:40 16 Dec 23

Friendly staff

Clara Hertzog

21:16 17 Jul 23

I had the privilege of being treated by Dr. Sulaman Anwar, and I cannot express how incredible my experience has been. As someone who has undergone extensive dentistry work due to an accident as a kid, I have always had extreme anxiety around anything dental-related. However, Dr. Anwar's exceptional skills and unwavering patience completely transformed my perspective on dental care.I believe my case was particularly complex, but Dr. Anwar approached it with genuine care and dedication. He took the time to thoroughly understand every aspect of my situation, ensuring that he could advise the best possible path forward. Throughout my treatment plan, he always maintained open lines of communication with other specialists involved, ensuring that every step of the process was meticulously planned and executed to perfection.One of the treatments I went through under Dr. Anwar's expert care was a gum contouring surgery, a procedure that has quite literally changed my life. Since my accident, I had constantly hidden my smile, feeling self-conscious about asymmetry and appearance. Since the surgery, I have found myself able to smile again -- I can't express how life-changing this is for me.I cannot emphasize enough how grateful I am for Dr. Anwar's remarkable talent and genuine kindness. He goes above and beyond to ensure his patients' well-being. For anyone seeking a dentist who combines skill, patience, and an unwavering commitment to their patients' happiness and comfort, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Sulaman Anwar. Particularly if you're anxious about dentistry!

Tooth Erosion Treatment

What is Tooth Erosion?

What exactly is tooth erosion?

How can one identify tooth erosion?

How is tooth erosion different from tooth decay?

Can tooth erosion be prevented?

What causes tooth erosion?

What are the treatment options for tooth erosion?

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