Stop dental erosion!

What is dental erosion?

Cavities are formed because of bacteria in the mouth. However, no bacterium is responsible for dental erosion. “it is the types of food that attack the teeth,” said Dr. Christophe Lequart, dentist and spokesman for the French Union of Oral Health. The problem: When the enamel on our teeth dissolves a little, it cannot be recovered. Fortunately though we can prevent and reduce dental erosion with a few reflexes.

The first signs

As the enamel becomes thinner, the layer beneath – which is called dentin and is yellow in colour – becomes less reflective and as a result the tooth loses its luster. It also becomes sensitive to hot and cold and would sometimes hurt while brushing. If this happens, then it’s time to consult a dentist.

Food that will affect your teeth

These are all products with a pH level below 5.5. The list includes vinegar, wine, lemon, fruit and fruit juices. “Yogurt and white cheeses, sweet or not, are also on the list because of their lactic acid,” warns Dr. Lequart. However, cheese and milk are no risk because they do not contain lactic acid. As for sodas and energy drinks, a recent study published by the American Dental Academy warns parents of adolescents that the equivalent of four energy drinks per day for the period of 5 days is enough to permanently damage the teeth’s enamel.

In addition to food, some habits amplify the problem such as very hard toothbrushes, brushing too vigorously and abrasive whitening toothpastes (usually on the packaging and on the tube, it is advised to use them only twice a week). Brushing as soon as you finish a meal is also a no-no; the enamel weakened by acid comes off faster and hence it is better to wait an hour after your meal.

Our natural defense and reflexes

Saliva is our natural antidote as it regulates the acidity of the mouth; hence the importance of chewing a gum (sugar free) or eating chewy healthy food (raw carrots or apples).

Another way is to try and to neutralize the acidity in your mouth by finishing your meal with an order of cheese after eating a salad tossed with vinegar. In all cases, it is best to rinse your mouth with water after a meal or after drinking a soda or fruit juice to dilute the acidity.

Drinking tea or coffee without sugar or creamer also protects the teeth! For soda fans, limit the damage by using a drinking straw to minimize the teeth-soda contact.

Finally, some hygiene products for dental care are very useful. Mouthwash that promises greater protection of the enamel (Listerine, Elmex…), low abrasive toothpaste with high fluorine content and neutral pH (Elmex erosion protection, Pro-enamel GSK), and toothbrushes with soft bristles are part of the perfect protective kit against erosion. As for electric brushes, “It’s no problem,” said Dr. Lequart, and some have even tailored programs for soft brushing.

Stephen Rica