Your teeth’s enamel may be tough, but your teeth still need
your help to protect them from erosion. Read on to learn more.
What is tooth enamel?
Enamel is the white looking outer covering of the tooth crown.
This protective shell is the hardest tissue in the human body.

What does tooth enamel do?
Tooth enamel protects your teeth from daily wear and tear.
It also protects teeth from sensitivity to heat and cold. And,
although this tissue is tough, it can chip or crack. Unfortunately,
enamel can only remineralize to a certain degree, so it’s
important to protect it from injury and erosion, and if it
becomes damaged, for your dentist to mend it.

What is acid erosion?
Acid erosion occurs when acids wear away at the tooth’s
enamel. When erosion occurs, it exposes the tooth’s inner
layers, which increases sensitivity and makes the tooth more
susceptible to cavities or tooth decay.

What causes acid erosion?
Acid erosion can be caused by the following:
• Excessive soft drink consumption, especially with beverages
that contain high levels of phosphoric and citric acids
• Sports and energy drinks
• Fruit drinks
• Plaque
• Diets high in sugar and starches
• Medical factors that damage the enamel, including acid corrosion
(due to conditions such as bulimia and acid reflux disease)
Damage to the enamel also can be caused by environmental factors,
including friction (bruxism) and abrasion (brushing too hard).
What are the signs of erosion?
The signs of erosion vary but may include:
• Tooth sensitivity that ranges from mild to severe when
exposed to certain foods and temperatures
• Tooth discoloration
• Tooth transparency
• Cracks and chips on the edges of teeth
Another sign of erosion is indentations in the tooth’s surface.
These tiny indentations also are referred to as “cupping.”
Enamel and Erosion

How can acid erosion be prevented?
It’s important to brush and floss teeth daily, as well as see your dentist
every six months for regular checkups and cleanings. If erosion is a
concern, your dentist may recommend the following:
• Eliminate or reduce highly acidic foods and drinks from your diet.
• Avoid brushing immediately after consuming acidic foods or drinks.
Acidic foods and drinks soften the enamel, which then can be damaged
by the abrasive action of brushing. Wait to brush for at least 30 minutes
to allow your mouth to produce enough saliva to neutralize the acidity
and allow the enamel to harden.
• Rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods or drinks.
Water helps reduce acidity in the mouth.
• If you drink acidic drinks, use a straw and don’t swish the liquid
around in your mouth. (The straw pushes the liquid to the back of
your mouth, reducing contact with the teeth.)
• Avoid sugary snacks.
• Chew sugar-free gum between meals. Chewing gum increases saliva
production.
• Drink water throughout the day.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste.
Ask your dentist about whether or not you should add a fluoride
mouthwash to your daily oral health care routine. For some patients,
this may be recommended.

How is erosion treated?
If enamel loss is minimal, he or she may apply a bonding material that
will protect the tooth and improve its appearance. If the enamel loss is
more significant, your dentist may recommend protecting the tooth by
covering it with a crown. You and your dentist together can determine
the best treatment option for you.

For more information about how to protect your teeth from erosion,
talk with your dentist.
This fact sheet was produced with support from GSK Consumer Healthcare.
From the office of:
Eric E. Klein, DMD, FAGD
20646 Abbey Woods Ct N
Frankfort, IL 60423-3161
(815) 806-1451