What is Acid Erosion?
Many of the foods and drinks that we associate with a modern diet, including wine, many fruits, fruit tea and balsamic vinegar contain acid.
The acid comes into contact with teeth, at which point the tooth’s hard enamel surface temporarily softens. When we then brush our teeth, the enamel can be worn away more easily and become thinner over time. This wearing of enamel, caused by acid in our diet is called acid erosion.
What to look out for
Early stages:
- sensitivity when consuming hot or cold food and drinks;
- a rounded look on the surface of the tooth;
- a slight yellow appearance as the tooth becomes thinner and the underlying dentine shows through.
Later stages:
- darker yellow appearance of the teeth;
- transparency at the edges;
- sensitivity becoming more severe;
- small dents on the tooth surface.
The effects of acid erosion cannot be reversed & if left to advance may require treatment from the dentist to restore & protect the affected teeth. In very extreme cases the damage caused may require affected teeth to be extracted.
Prevention
The effects of acid erosion can affect all ages and, once present, cannot be reversed - protection is the best policy. What you can do to protect against acid erosion:
- Avoid brushing teeth immediately after consuming acidic food or drinks - its best to wait as long as possible after eating or drinking, or brush beforehand;
- Don't swish or hold acidic drinks for long periods in your mouth to minimise the contact time between the acid and your tooth enamel
- Brush twice a day, every day, with a toothpaste like Sensodyne Pronamel to help re-harden softened tooth enamel;
- Visit your dentist regularly.
What product can help?
Sensodyne Pronamel
When used 2-4 times daily, Sensodyne Pronamel aids re-hardening of tooth enamel to help protect teeth from acid erosion. Its neutral pH is kind on tooth enamel. It is also specially formulated for sensitive teeth.
View product detailsView all products
