What is tooth erosion and how can it be prevented?

Tooth erosion is a common problem that involves the chemical wear of tooth enamel without the influence of bacteria. It can lead to tooth pain, sensitivity and even tooth loss if not treated in time.

Tooth erosion is a process in which tooth enamel dissolves under the influence of acids. This is different from decay, for example, where bacteria produce acids. According to Finnish dentist, Pirta Liljekvist, dental erosion is a rapidly growing problem, especially among young people.

- Eating habits have become more challenging to maintain oral health. In addition to an increase in snacking, consumption of energy drinks and soft drinks, for example, has increased significantly. Drinking a lot of smoothies, fruit juices and water flavoured with lemon, for example, can also accelerate tooth wear, says Liljekvist.

Studies show that around one in five Finns have obvious damage caused by tooth erosion. Severe erosive wear is found in around 5-10%. According to Liljekvist, cases of dental erosion have become more common over the past 15 years, but the problem is still under-diagnosed.

- Dental erosion is a relatively underdiagnosed oral problem today, with many people blaming it on other tooth wear, such as teeth grinding, she says.

What causes tooth erosion?

Diet: acidic drinks (such as soft drinks, sports drinks, fruit juices) and acidic foods (such as citrus fruits, vinegar-based foods).

Stomach acids: Repeated vomiting or reflux disease can introduce stomach acids into the mouth.

Certain medications: some medicines, such as aspirin and vitamin C tablets, can be acidic.

From the environment: occupational exposure to acids, such as those working in the chemical industry.

How can tooth erosion be prevented?

Through dietary changes:

Avoid acidic drinks and foods: Try to reduce your consumption of acidic drinks and foods. If you drink acidic drinks, use a straw and avoid keeping them in your mouth for long periods.

Eat regular meals and snacks to increase saliva secretion and protect your teeth.

Research suggests that the appropriate number of meals is 5 to 6 times a day. This gives saliva time to neutralise the acidity in the mouth and allows minerals to return to the tooth surface. Constant snacking leads to an increase in acid attacks throughout the day and causes both tooth decay and mica damage

Rinse your mouth regularly with water: after drinking something acidic, rinse your mouth with water to neutralise the acids.

Dentist Pirta Liljekvist points out that both vegan and vegetarian diets can put teeth at risk of erosion.

- For people who have changed their diet, these changes often come as a surprise, she says.

Good Oral Hygiene Routines

Remember that healthy oral hygiene habits go a long way when it comes to oral health. Here are a few tips to help you build a healthy smile:

 

Keep in mind

Although tooth erosion itself is not caused by bacteria, antibacterial treatments have indirect benefits in preventing and treating erosion.

Erosion and bacterial problems can occur together. For example, mica that is weakened by erosion is more susceptible to bacterial degradation.

On the other hand, good overall oral health reduces the risk of both erosion and bacterial disease. Antibacterial treatment can help keep the mouth healthy and reduce complications associated with erosion.

Tooth erosion is a serious problem, but with the right measures, its progression can be hampered and even prevented. Change your eating habits, maintain good oral hygiene, use fluoride products and have regular dental check-ups. With these simple but effective measures, you can protect your teeth from erosion and maintain healthy teeth for a long time.

 

According to dentist Pirta Liljekvist, tooth erosion is a rapidly growing problem, especially among young people.