Enamel is an extremely strong shell that protects the teeth from harm when chewing or biting; it also serves to insulate the teeth from painfully hot or cold temperatures. Over time, however, the enamel may begin to erode. While a dentist can help you determine the precise source of your enamel erosion, the following guide offers a few common possibilities.

3 Factors That Can Lead to Tooth Erosion

1. Food & Drink

Soft drinks contain high quantities of citric and phosphoric acids, both of which are known to eat away at enamel. Unfortunately, even healthy fruit drinks like pure orange and grapefruit juice are full of acids that can cause similar damage. Lemonade, tomato paste, and wine can also cause harm over time. Meanwhile, sugary, starchy foods feed acids in the mouth, which aids in erosion. To prevent damage, avoid excessive consumption of these foods and beverages.

2. Certain Medications

Some medications tend to cause dry mouth as side effect, which diminishes saliva production. Since saliva helps prevent acids from clinging to the enamel, dryness can quickly cause increased erosion. Antihistamines, decongestants, sedatives, antidepressants, diuretics, and pain medications are known to cause dry mouth. If you take one of these medications, talk to your dentist about your options.

3. Environmental Factors

Tooth enamel tends to wear down with age, but other environmental stressors may worsen cumulative wear and tear. Those who clench their teeth or grind them during the night (a condition called bruxism) may wear down their enamel more quickly. Stress fractures, chewing tobacco, alcoholism, and frequent vomiting can also lead to severe erosion.

To help protect your tooth enamel, prioritize healthy dental care and visit your dentist on a regular basis. The experts from Schaible Dental Group in St. Peters and St. Louis, MO, provide the specialized care patients need to build and maintain strong, healthy teeth. For more information about how the dentists can serve you, visit the website or call the dental clinic today at (636) 279-1633.