Tooth erosion or acid erosion, also known as dental erosion, is a type of tooth wear. It is defined as the irreversible loss of tooth structure due to chemical dissolution by acids. This is very different from tooth loss due to dental decay or trauma and is not of bacterial origin. The acid comes from beverages or even from your stomach in the form of ‘heart burn’. Tooth erosion and abrasion are often seen by your dentist on examination.

In tooth erosion the acid causes the tooth surface to soften and then normal chewing, clenching and grinding of the teeth will cause the wear of the teeth leaving a fairly smooth surface. Compare this to the rough jagged edges that show up on teeth subjected to heavy wear, clenching and grinding.

It usually takes a combination of three things to cause this kind of damage.
•  A susceptible tooth
•  A diet that includes acidic foods or beverages
•  Clenching or grinding of the teeth during the day or night

Tooth abrasion and tooth erosion are two types of damage that can wear away the tooth’s enamel.  Once the enamel is gone, the wear occurs even faster as the inner layer of the tooth or the dentin is much softer than enamel. You will notice cupped lesions appear when the enamel is gone, and the habit continues. Abrasion and erosion also can affect how your teeth look, how they feel and how long they will last.

Tooth abrasion

Generally, tooth abrasion is caused by something rubbing or scraping against the teeth. Brushing too hard, clenching and grinding are common causes of tooth abrasion. Toothpicks can cause abrasion if they are used aggressively.

Tooth erosion

Looks different from abrasion. Tooth erosion leaves a smooth, scooped out area on the tooth surface. But these processes can be going on at the same time causing even more damage.

Tooth abrasion and erosion

Both can make teeth more sensitive to sweet, hot, or cold foods and drinks. The problem may be worse if the dentin under the enamel is exposed. Dentin protects the innermost part of the tooth, the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels.

Abrasion and erosion also can affect how your teeth look, how they feel and how long they will last.

In the meantime, the following tips will be helpful:
• Avoid long contact periods with acidic foods or drinks.
• If you have heart burn this condition may need to be treated and avoid eating within three hours before bedtime.
• Do not press too hard when brushing your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.  
• Use dental floss and toothpicks properly.
• Minimize or eliminate clenching and grinding of the teeth.

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Kate Anderson

BDS

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Kate Anderson

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