The enamel is the outer covering of the tooth that shields the inner components. Over time, the enamel wears away due to many factors.
Dietary Causes
The acid in the mouth comes from two sources; the diet and the gastric/stomach. The acid in the oral cavity attacks the enamel by dissolving the calcium away. As a result, necessary nutrients for healthy teeth become limited which wears off the enamel. Drinks and beverages with a pH level of below 5.7 contain too much acid that erodes the teeth. The acid contained in the stomach is more powerful and can dissolve even the bones. Gastric acid could find its way to the oral cavity through vomiting or regurgitation.
Xerostomia
A dry mouth also known as xerostomia facilitates tooth erosion. Xerostomia forms when the salivary glands in the mouth produce little or no saliva. We have established the effect of acid on the enamel. Now, the saliva produced in the mouth counterbalances that effect. Saliva plays the role of lowering the pH levels in the mouth. Additionally, saliva moistens the mouth making it easy to cleanse the mouth.
Environmental Related Factors
As the years go by, the issues of life such as stress may impact the health of your teeth. Involuntary actions like bruxism/ teeth grinding cause a strain on the teeth which leads to corrosion.
Abrasion is another factor. Abrasion is caused by brushing too hard or biting hard objects.
Abrasion is another factor. Abrasion is caused by brushing too hard or biting hard objects.
Tartar Buildup
Tartar is the sticky combination of saliva, food debris, and bacteria. When allowed to build up, it converts to a hard substance that gets stuck between the teeth. As the bacteria overgrows, it converts the starch into sugary acids. The acid eats away the enamel by feeding on the calcium and phosphate in the tooth. With time, the enamel becomes pitted and weakened. As a result, the cavity hole keeps growing by the day.
Teeth erosion presents in the form of sensitivity, pain, and discoloration. We emphasize the need to have dental cleaning at least twice a year. That way our dentists will get rid of all tartar buildup that could have detrimental effects on your teeth. Register with us today for the best dental care in the region.
Teeth erosion presents in the form of sensitivity, pain, and discoloration. We emphasize the need to have dental cleaning at least twice a year. That way our dentists will get rid of all tartar buildup that could have detrimental effects on your teeth. Register with us today for the best dental care in the region.