What is dental erosion and why should you worry about it? Dental erosion occurs when tooth enamel is worn away by acids in our mouth. Erosion causes teeth to become very sensitive, turns teeth yellow (something that bleaching can’t fix) and leaves them vulnerable to decay. Today the rates of dental erosion are increasing dramatically and these rates are rising especially fast for young people.

Why are rates increasing? Lots of things in our lives have changed  including growing taste preferences for sour tastes, more acidic beverages and foods becoming available and overall lifestyle changes. Children today start drinking soft drinks at a very young age and studies have shown that starting the soda habit early leads to a higher consumption of soda at later ages compared to kids who start drinking soda when older. Sour candies like War Heads are popular with kids and are highly acidic. Sports drinks and energy drinks are popular among teens and young adults and are extremely damaging to teeth.

How and when we consume these items has changed as well. Years ago soda was a treat that you didn’t have every day. Today many households with young children have soda available all day long to go along with constant snacking. The combination of acidic, sugary drinks with high carb snacks makes the mouth a perfect environment for decay.

What can you do to protect against dental erosion? First, avoid frequent consumption of soda, energy drinks and sports drinks. Secondly, if you do have these drinks then rinse your mouth with water when you are done – wait about 30 minutes to brush your teeth. Third, help your child avoid types of candy that are highly acidic. Offer your child a piece of chocolate (dark chocolate is actually good for your teeth) or sugarless gum instead. Constant snacking on carbohydrate rich foods should also be avoided – your smile and your waistline will thank you. These tips will help ensure healthy tooth enamel and better overall health as well.

If you are experiencing sensitive or painful teeth please contact cosmetic dentist Dr. Mark Levy in Gahanna, OH at 614-476-6696 to schedule your appointment. We can offer solutions to tooth sensitivity and help keep your smile beautiful.