If it’s been a while since your last visit to the dentist, it’s easy to fall into bad dental habits, like going to bed without brushing or flossing. Although it may not seem like much of an issue, ignoring your teeth at the end of the day can pose a serious threat to your smile. Dental erosion is the first step in the process of tooth decay, and it can have painful (and expensive) consequences. If you want to take control of your dental health, use the following guide to learn about dental erosion and how you can prevent it.

A Brief Guide to Dental Erosion

What Is Dental Erosion?

Your teeth are covered with a thin, translucent layer of enamel, the hardest tissue in your body. It’s can also get stained by highly pigmented foods like coffee and berries. Over time, acids can wear away this protective layer in a process called dental erosion.

What Causes It?

The acids in the foods and drinks we consume — such as fruit and soda — can erode tooth enamel. Diets made up of too much sugar or starch can contribute to dental erosion. As food particles form plaque around your teeth, they transform starches into acids that erode enamel and leave cracks, chips, or pits in teeth. Other causes of dental erosion include conditions like dry mouth, acid reflux, and gastrointestinal issues. You can also erode your teeth by taking excessive amounts of aspirin and antihistamines or by grinding your teeth at night.

How Can I Prevent It?

The best way to prevent dental erosion is to prioritize hygiene practices like brushing and flossing and to schedule checkups with your dentist twice a year. You can also prevent acids from harming your smile in the first place by modifying your diet. Avoid drinks that are extremely acidic, such as concentrated fruit juice or sugary soft drinks. If you do indulge in these treats, use a straw and rinse your mouth with water right afterwards. You should also avoid snacking on starchy foods in between meals, as they will linger on your teeth and turn into enamel-eating acids.

How Can a Dentist Restore My Eroded Teeth?

If your smile has been affected by dental erosion, your dentist can use tooth bonding methods to seal eroded areas and protect the remainder of each affected tooth. More extreme techniques will need to be used if the erosion is widespread. In some cases, your dentist may install a crown or veneer over the tooth to prevent further damage.

If your teeth have been damaged by erosion, make an appointment with Jeffrey E. Bang, DMD, PC of Staunton, VA. This dentist offers general, pediatric, and cosmetic treatments, letting you and your family restore your healthy, beautiful smiles. Call his office at (540) 885-8667 to schedule a cleaning.