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Acid erosion is common as many frequently expose their teeth to acid from soda, energy drinks, and sour candies. Learn how to avoid it and what to do if damage occurs.
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Acid damage to teeth, also known as erosion damage, refers to the gradual dissolution of tooth substance due to acid attacks over time. Enamel is the hard, protective outer layer of the tooth. Beneath it lies dentin, which is often exposed in the mouth when acid damage occurs. Once tooth substance is eroded away, it cannot naturally regenerate.
Acid damage is becoming increasingly common, as many expose their teeth to acid attacks more frequently than they should, for example, through soda, energy drinks, citrus fruits, wine, and sour candies. Others struggle with acid reflux or other reasons that cause stomach acid to enter the mouth, damaging the teeth. The mouth has its own buffering system against falling pH levels, but if this occurs too often and too much, it can negatively affect our teeth.
Yes, acid damage to teeth can negatively impact oral health, especially if the damage is significant. Therefore, it is important to focus on preventing such damage early on. Your dental provider will inform you if there are signs of acid damage to your teeth and help you with preventive measures. Enamel is a vital protective barrier for the dentin and the living tissue of the tooth, which contains blood vessels and nerves. Extensive acid damage can expose the dentin and, in the worst case, the nerve of the tooth. This makes the tooth more susceptible to sensitivity, cavities, and even fractures.
Acid damage to teeth is often caused by the consumption of acidic foods and drinks. There is a high intake of soda, juice, and energy drinks, especially among young adults. This results in teeth being subjected to acid attacks more frequently than they should, and since sodas and energy drinks are often consumed slowly, they tend to linger on the teeth for a long time before saliva manages to wash some of it away. Our saliva has a neutral pH value (7), while such drinks can have a pH as low as 3. For example, Pepsi Max is just below 3 on the scale.
To prevent acid damage to your teeth, take the following precautions:
The treatment of acid damage depends on the severity. In cases of extensive damage where both function and aesthetics are affected, you may be entitled to support for dental treatment through HELFO. The dentist will inform you if you fall into this group. Here are some treatment options: