Do you avoid hot and cold food and drink for fear of how they might react with your teeth? Just like you, many adults and children suffer from having sensitive teeth in Essex, a dental issue that is caused by many contributing factors but most prominently from enamel erosion.
If you are tired of living this way and restricting your diet due to your tender pearly whites, book an appointment with one of our trained and experienced dentists at Crofts Dental Practice.
What is enamel erosion?
The surface of every natural tooth you possess is called the enamel. The enamel is the tough outer layer that protects your dentine (the extremely sensitive tissue that is found underneath) against germs, chemicals and fluids.
From the food you consume daily to the fluids your body secretes, this enamel is constantly exposed to, and damaged by, potentially harmful substances, which does lead to its eventual wear and tear if you do not take adequate care of your teeth. Enamel erosion, the primary cause of sensitive teeth in Essex, occurs when the outer layer is damaged beyond repair and leaves the dentin vulnerable and exposed to the elements. People with sensitive teeth in Essex will experience pain or discomfort that worsens without medical treatment.
What generally causes erosion?
Germs contained in plaque use the sugars, found in the food and drink you consume, to create acid. This acid attacks and can destroy your enamel if you do not remove the plaque by cleaning your teeth regularly.
Your saliva can neutralise acid attacks. However, a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates results in a more significant build-up of acid that your body’s natural defences cannot fend off by itself – which is why brushing your teeth regularly with fluoridated toothpaste is so crucial.
What should I eliminate from my diet to improve my oral health?
Watch what you eat by curbing your intake of sugary, acidic and starchy foods, such as white bread. If you do consume acidic drinks, such as orange juice, use a straw to minimise your teeth’s contact with the beverage.
Are there other medical conditions that cause this issue?
If you are in the habit of grinding your teeth, then know that it can negatively impact the structure of your teeth. Correct this issue by enquiring with us about using a retainer at night.
Xerostomia is a condition that results in a reduction of saliva and is often a symptom of serious illnesses, such as Diabetes. Less acid is neutralised without the necessary saliva.
Certain medications, like antihistamines and aspirin, can weaken your enamel’s defences against foreign substances.
The way you brush your teeth can impose upon your enamel. People often correlate healthy teeth to hard brushing – which is not at all true. Brush gently and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
How can we fight off enamel erosion?
Unfortunately, enamel does not grow back, but we can prevent the decay from getting worse. One technique we often recommend is bonding, especially if you have experienced tooth discolouration as a result of enamel erosion. The treatment involves applying resin, a tooth-coloured resin, to the front of your tooth. The resin is both functional and aesthetically-pleasing because it protects the tooth while reversing discolouration, stains and marks.
Visit us for an appointment before your sensitive teeth get in the way of everyday life!