“Dental Erosion: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment”

What is dental erosion?

If you suffer from dental erosion, this means that your tooth enamel dissolves due to acids in your mouth, for example through food, drinks or stomach acid. Dental erosion can cause serious problems. Your tooth enamel protects your teeth. Once the enamel is completely dissolved, it will never come back and bacteria will have access to the underlying tissue. In the worst case you need inlays, crowns or veneers.

What can you do about it?

Unfortunately, there is no treatment for dental erosion. Prevention is better than cure in this case. You can prevent tooth erosion or slow down the process by following these tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and an electric toothbrush
• Clean between your teeth once a day with a toothpick, interdental brush or dental floss
• Watch your diet and drink: make sure you don’t consume too many sugars and acids
• Visit the dentist and dental hygienist regularly

Which drinks and foods should you be especially wary of?

As mentioned, you can mainly prevent dental erosion by not drinking or eating too many sweet and sour things. The following products in particular cause dental erosion:

• Fruit
• Fruit juices
• Sports drinks
• Energy drinks
• Icetea
• Syrup
• Soft drinks such as Sprite, 7UP and Spa Citroen
• Wine
• Foods acidified with acetic or citric acid
• Apple syrup and jam

Bron: NVM, The Dental Clinic