Enamel Erosion – Kim Rosen, DDS

Enamel erosion is a growing concern in dental practice today, with young adults already showing signs of enamel erosion. Enamel erosion is a form of tooth wear caused by acid weakening the surface of tooth enamel. Acidic foods and drinks like fruit, soda, orange juice and wine feature prominently in diets today. These demineralize and weaken the tooth enamel, making it more susceptible to physical damage, even by brushing.
The number of times per day people are consuming acidic food is increasing, and 20%–40% of the population are drinking soda or fruit juice at least once per day. Enamel undergoes natural dynamic cycles of remineralization and demineralization, normally favoring remineralization due to mineral-rich saliva, which helps neutralize acidity and reharden enamel.
Enamel is equipped to respond to normal daily acid exposure. Brief periods of acid exposure trigger a demineralization process that reduces the mineral density of the enamel surface, thereby weakening it.
Due to mineral-rich saliva, the enamel undergoes a natural process of remineralization to restore its mineral density and the enamel is strengthened again. Frequent exposure to acids, especially over long periods, can cause the remineralization process to become overwhelmed, leaving enamel weakened. In this state, enamel is at risk of irreversible wear.
There are many factors which are involved in erosive tooth wear. Biological, behavioral and chemical factors interact with the tooth surface, which over time, may either wear it away, or protect it. Enamel Erosion is a progressive condition that may have a lifetime on patients. Over time, enamel erosion can lead to cosmetic changes and dentin hypersensitivity which may become a significant concern for your patients: Change in appearance, e.g. yellowing from thinning and increased translucency and dentin hypersensitivity.
In some cases, enamel erosion can have a significant impact on patients and may require repeated, expensive and complex restoration. Enamel loss is irreversible. The most important preventive action for patients with enamel erosion is to ensure that the potential sources of erosion are identified and removed, and lifestyle is modified.
For any questions or concern, you may call the office of Kimberly A. Rosen ,DDS @ 661-255-2545.Please see our website: www.kimrosendds.com