Tooth erosion is the wearing away of tooth enamel by acid. The enamel is the hard calcified tissue that covers and protects the outside of the teeth. It is the hardest substance in our bodies. The saliva in our mouth contains calcium which helps to strengthen and remineralize the teeth, however, although a tooth can not remineralize with a large amount of acid is present.
The high amount of acids in the food and drink that you consume can cause tooth erosion. Soft drinks and pure fruit juices contain a high amount of acid. It can also be caused by medical issues such as a decrease in saliva, acid reflux disease, certain gastrointestinal conditions and the eating disorder bulimia. If you have any questions please call our office at 509-565-8810.