Better safe than sorry. This phrase can even apply when it comes to preventing dental erosion. A tooth is constructed of the crown (the white part past the gum line) and the root (below the gum line). The crown is the part that contains the enamel (the hard white surface). The enamel protects the softer, supportive tissues like the pulp and the nerves. Once this enamel is worn out, it leaves the tooth vulnerable to bacteria and plaque.
The Signs of a Dental Erosion
Before learning how to prevent it, you must understand the signs and symptoms associated with it. This helps to prevent more damage, such as cracks and pain due to nerve exposure. One of the signs includes sensitivity due to the protective part of the tooth wearing away. That leads to sensitivity, which is a twinge of pain when you expose the tooth to extreme temperatures (hot or cold) or when consuming sweet foods.
Another sign is the discoloration of the tooth surface, which can turn yellow when the enamel exposes the underlying dentin. Moreover, rounded teeth may appear transparent near the edges. Cracks on the tooth or, in other cases, the roughness of the tooth edges are other signs.
How to Prevent Dental Erosion
The preventive measures are as easy since they are just the opposite of the causes. Instead of snacking throughout the day, save the acidic foods for mealtime; that will help avoid direct contact with the teeth since the other foods neutralize them. Make water your friend. After every meal, wash down the food and any sugary drinks with water. You can also opt to sip the water as you eat the acidic food. To reduce contact between the teeth and acidic drinks, you are advised to use a straw and finish the drink quickly instead of taking time to sip it.
Finally, acid softens your tooth enamel, so wait for at least half an hour before brushing. In the meantime, you can rinse your mouth with water. For this and more information about how to take care of your teeth, contact us today.
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Better safe than sorry. This phrase can even apply when it comes to preventing dental erosion. A tooth is constructed of the crown (the white part past the gum line) and the root (below the gum line). The crown is the part that contains the enamel (the hard white surface). The enamel protects the softer, supportive tissues like the pulp and the nerves. Once this enamel is worn out, it leaves the tooth vulnerable to bacteria and plaque.