People are taught as children that prolonged exposure to sugar puts them at risk of tooth decay, and that’s true. But we want patients at Lehigh Vally Smiles to know adults have another major source of enamel erosion to watch out for: acid reflux. Also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, acid reflux causes a number of health problems, but dentists will often be the first of the patient’s doctors to identify it.
Acid reflux describes when hydrochloric acid from the stomach escapes into the esophagus. If it gets as far as the mouth, it can damage the gums and mouth lining, as well as the teeth. The tooth erosion associated with acid reflux is painful and leaves the teeth discolored, and the damage to the gums leaves the teeth weak.
Enamel cannot be regrown once lost, but it can be replaced with methods such as fillings, bonding, and partial crowns. It can also be strengthened through fluoride treatments. Some strategies for reducing acid reflux include reducing intake of fatty foods, alcohol, tomatoes, and citrus juice, keeping a straighter posture, and not eating large meals before bed.
Alan Dilsaver, DDS, FAGD, operates Lehigh Valley Smiles at 2601 Nazareth Road, Easton, Pennsylvania, 18045. To schedule an appointment, call 610-252-7414 or visit LehighValleySmiles.net and fill out a contact sheet.
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