Our teeth work hard and are consistently under attack. It’s no wonder that nature encases them with an armor of enamel—the hardest substance in the body. Unfortunately, enamel erosion is extremely common, though largely preventable. Enamel’s chief enemies are acidic foods and beverages. Other factors that can weaken enamel or wear it away are some medications, tooth grinding, acid reflux, gastrointestinal ailments, chewing ice or other hard substances, and eating disorders.
At Hereford Dental Health – Craig Longenecker DDS, we educate our patients about how to keep their enamel strong and prevent additional erosion if some have already taken place.
Here are five quick facts about enamel erosion:
1. Enamel is unlike many other tissues in the body; once it is gone, it can’t be regenerated.
2. According to the NIH, 41% of adolescents already have enamel erosion. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11132512
3. Too-forceful brushing can hurt enamel.
4. Diet sodas, sports drinks, and energy drinks are just as harmful as sugared sodas.
5. Dry mouth can weaken enamel because it results in less saliva which helps keep enamel healthy and strong.
If you have already experienced enamel erosion, it’s vital to halt further erosion. There are several dental procedures that can protect the teeth that have been affected. Call Hereford Dental Health – Craig Longenecker DDS today at 410-357-0099 to schedule an examination. Dr. Longenecker will give you guidance on the best dental treatments for enamel erosion.
Contact Hereford Dental Health – Craig Longenecker DDS:
410-357-0099
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
16928 York Rd
Monkton, Maryland
21111
