We have all heard about people losing teeth from accidents, periodontal disease or even deep decay; but there is another more insidious and increasingly prevalent cause of tooth loss—erosion. Erosion is the chemical “wearing away” of a surface.  In this case, the surface is tooth enamel, and the chemical is acid.

 “Acid” can be a scary word, conjuring images of sudden death or disfigurement, and of screaming victims holding their hands to their faces.  The reality is that all liquids are either neutral (like water), alkaline (like baking soda in water) or acidic (like vinegar or orange juice).  The degree of the acidity or alkalinity (pH) can vary from 0 to 14. The pH of water is neutral, and has a value of 7; acid, less than 7; and alkaline, more than 7.

The acid that dissolves enamel can come from two sources: From your body – autogenous acid – or from the outside, heterogenous acid.  Acid reflux (heartburn) occurs when stomach acid reverses up the esophagus.  It can continue into the mouth – often unnoticed – during sleep.  Frequent vomiting, such as in some nervous conditions or eating disorders, can also bring stomach acid into contact with teeth.  In these cases a person’s own stomach acid, with a pH of 2-3, can cause loss of tooth structure over time—sometimes in only a month or two.  There are many foods and beverages that are acidic, and if they are in contact with teeth long enough, they can cause erosive loss of enamel.  Some of the major culprits are citrus fruits and juices (pH 2-3), soda pop (pH 2.3-3.4), Gatorade (pH 0.5), and wine and beer (pH 4). 

To prevent enamel erosion:

• Schedule annual dental exams
• Limit the exposure of acidic foods and beverages to your teeth
• Wait 30 minutes after exposure to brush. Brushing any sooner can worsen the problem.
• Rinse with water if stomach acid comes into contact with your teeth
• See your physician if acid reflex is an continuing problem

Keep smiling!

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Caron Nelson Glickman, DDS has been helping her patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles in Duvall since 1992.

          For more information, contact 425-788-1551.

          Caron Nelson Glickman,DDS
          26425 NE Allen Street, #102 • Duvall
          425-788-1551 • caronnelson@comcast.net
          www.great-smile.com