Tooth erosion

Brief overview

• What is dental erosion? Loss of tooth substance due to acid exposure to the tooth surface, in contrast to caries without bacterial involvement .
• Treatment: Depending on the extent of erosion: Sealing of the tooth surface; Restoration or reconstruction of the tooth using special materials.
• Causes: Chemical exposure to acids, external intake (acidic foods) or internal intake (stomach acids, reflux disease , eating disorders/ bulimia).
• Symptoms: Changed tooth surface, dull, flattened areas, yellowish discoloration, shortened teeth , protruding fillings , sensitivity to cold, heat, and touch.
• Risk factors: Excessive consumption of acidic foods and beverages (soft drinks, fruit juices, vinegar dressings), frequent vomiting (morning sickness, eating disorders), reflux disease, dry mouth . In addition, incorrect brushing techniques, abrasives in toothpastes, and teeth grinding (bruxism) promote tooth erosion.
• Diagnosis: “Visual diagnosis” by the dentist.
• Prevention: Avoid excessive acid contact with the teeth, a healthy diet, treatment of underlying diseases, use of fluoride-containing dental care products, and regular dental check-ups.

How do dental erosions occur?

Tooth erosion (also known as dental erosion) occurs due to excessive contact of the tooth surface with acids. These acids chemically dissolve minerals from the tooth substance. The tooth substance initially softens and eventually gradually dissolves. The process begins on the outside of the tooth enamel and progresses to the underlying dentin and finally to the root cementum. Unlike caries, which is caused by acid-producing bacteria, tooth erosion occurs without the involvement of bacteria.

The triggering acids often come from acidic foods, such as fruit juices, cola, citrus fruits, or salad dressings (vinegar). Tooth erosion can also occur when teeth are frequently exposed to stomach acid. This can happen, for example, due to frequent vomiting or when stomach acid flows back up the esophagus to the mouth (reflux disease, heartburn, acid reflux).

The softened tooth surface is also more sensitive to mechanical stress. Incorrect brushing technique or the use of toothpastes containing abrasive particles promote erosion.

How are dental erosions treated?

An important prerequisite for treating tooth erosion is eliminating the causes of tooth loss. Tooth erosion is irreversible, meaning the lost tooth substance does not naturally regenerate.

Treatment focuses on correcting the tooth defect by sealing it, filling it with special materials (restoration), or (partially) replacing the affected teeth (reconstruction). The method chosen by the dentist in each individual case depends primarily on the extent of tooth erosion.

Stop the causes of tooth erosion

If diet is the cause of tooth erosion, it is recommended to change eating habits accordingly. For example, those affected should limit their consumption of highly acidic foods such as cola or fruit juices, or ideally, avoid them altogether.

If the tooth erosions are caused by contact with stomach acid, the underlying conditions (e.g. reflux disease, eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia, excessive vomiting during pregnancy) must be treated.

To prevent further progression of tooth erosion, it is also important to avoid mechanical abrasion of the teeth. This includes, for example:

• Correct technique when brushing teeth: apply only gentle pressure, use soft bristles, clean each individual tooth with circular and shaking movements of the toothbrush and finally brush towards the chewing surface
• Use of fluoride toothpastes
• Avoid toothpastes that contain abrasive cleaning particles
• Treatment of teeth grinding (bruxism)

In the UAE

Where dietary habits and lifestyle factors contribute to rising dental concerns, awareness and prevention are crucial. The DHA’s new dental insurance mandate ensures better access to treatment, but prevention remains key. Reducing acidic food intake, using fluoride toothpaste, and adopting proper brushing techniques can help protect your teeth from irreversible damage.

Whether it’s soft drinks, citrus fruits, or reflux-related acidity, understanding the risks and taking preventive steps can safeguard your oral health. Are you protecting your smile?