Understanding Erosive Tooth Wear: What You Need to Know
By Dr. Brian Green
February is Dental Health Month - Understanding Erosive Tooth Wear: What You Need to Know
Tooth wear is a natural part of aging, but some people experience accelerated or severe wear, known as pathological tooth wear. A major contributor to this is erosive tooth wear, caused by acids—either from dietary sources or gastric reflux—that can lead to smooth lesions on the teeth. When erosion is combined with habits like grinding or vigorous brushing, it can result in significant damage, thinning the enamel and exposing the softer dentine beneath. Once dentine is exposed, wear progresses seven times faster.
Why Tooth Wear Matters
Though tooth wear is common with age, its impact can become a serious concern. Studies show that people aged 65 and older are over three times more likely to experience pathological wear than younger adults aged 26–35. If left unmanaged, this wear can create complex dental issues by the time patients reach their later years, making prevention and early treatment critical.
The Role of Acids in Erosive Tooth Wear
Research shows that abrasion alone, such as brushing with toothpaste, is unlikely to cause significant damage to teeth. However, when combined with acids, the rate of enamel erosion increases dramatically. For example, it would take 100 years of brushing with toothpaste to wear down 1 mm of enamel, but that same damage can occur in just two years when brushing is combined with acidic exposure. Unlike cavities, which affect specific teeth, erosion can impact most or all teeth, making it a widespread issue.
Sources of Acid
Extrinsic (Dietary): Citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, grapefruits), apples, cranberries, and grapes.
Intrinsic (Gastric): Stomach acids, particularly from conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD, which affects up to 60% of people, causes regurgitation of stomach acid, leading to significant dental erosion.
Preventing and Managing Tooth Wear
Prevention is key to preserving dental health. Dentists play an important role in educating patients on minimizing acidic damage rather than eliminating acidic foods entirely. Tips include:
Using Fluoride: Fluoride can strengthen enamel and promote remineralization.
Minimally Invasive Treatments: Resin dentin-bonding agents can reduce wear by half.
Restorative Options: In advanced cases, restorations may be necessary to repair damage.
About Green Dental Medicine
Dr. Brian Green of Green Dental Medicine in Newport Beach emphasizes the connection between oral and systemic health. Guided by a mission to blend science with evidence-based dentistry, Dr. Green prioritizes personalized care and prevention to help patients maintain their oral health for years to come.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the office at(949) 706-0777 or visit www.greendentailmedicine.com