Enamel erosion happens when the outer protective layer of the teeth, called enamel, wears away. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but it isn’t invincible. Acidic foods, sugary drinks, and certain habits can gradually erode enamel, leaving teeth vulnerable to sensitivity, discoloration, and decay. In children, enamel erosion is especially concerning because their enamel is thinner and less resistant to damage.
Symptoms
You may notice the following signs if your child has enamel erosion:
• Increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
• Teeth that appear yellow or dull due to the exposed underlying dentin
• Rounded or rough edges on teeth
• Small pits or indentations on the tooth surface
• Increased susceptibility to cavities
• Increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
• Teeth that appear yellow or dull due to the exposed underlying dentin
• Rounded or rough edges on teeth
• Small pits or indentations on the tooth surface
• Increased susceptibility to cavities
Causes
Several factors can lead to enamel erosion in children, including:
• Acidic foods and drinks: Frequent consumption of citrus fruits, soda, sports drinks, or vinegar-based snacks.
• Sugary treats: Sugary foods promote the growth of bacteria that produce acid, eroding enamel.
• Poor oral hygiene: Plaque buildup can lead to enamel damage over time.
• Frequent snacking: Constant snacking reduces saliva’s ability to neutralize acids.
• Dry mouth: Reduced saliva flow (from dehydration or medical conditions) makes it harder to wash away harmful acids.
• Brushing too hard: Aggressive brushing can wear away enamel over time.
• Acidic foods and drinks: Frequent consumption of citrus fruits, soda, sports drinks, or vinegar-based snacks.
• Sugary treats: Sugary foods promote the growth of bacteria that produce acid, eroding enamel.
• Poor oral hygiene: Plaque buildup can lead to enamel damage over time.
• Frequent snacking: Constant snacking reduces saliva’s ability to neutralize acids.
• Dry mouth: Reduced saliva flow (from dehydration or medical conditions) makes it harder to wash away harmful acids.
• Brushing too hard: Aggressive brushing can wear away enamel over time.
Diagnosis
At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, our pediatric dentists will:
• Conduct a thorough examination to identify signs of enamel erosion
• Discuss your child’s diet, brushing habits, and medical history
• Use diagnostic tools like X-rays to assess the extent of damage and rule out cavities
• Conduct a thorough examination to identify signs of enamel erosion
• Discuss your child’s diet, brushing habits, and medical history
• Use diagnostic tools like X-rays to assess the extent of damage and rule out cavities
Treatment Options
While enamel can’t regenerate, early intervention can protect your child’s teeth from further damage. Treatment options include:
• Fluoride treatments: Strengthen teeth and make them more resistant to acid attacks.
• Dental sealants: Apply a protective coating to shield weakened teeth from further erosion.
• Restorative treatments: In severe cases, fillings or crowns may be necessary to repair damaged teeth.
• Dietary advice: Help your child adopt a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
• Proper oral hygiene: Teach gentle brushing with fluoride toothpaste and encourage rinsing after consuming acidic foods.
• Fluoride treatments: Strengthen teeth and make them more resistant to acid attacks.
• Dental sealants: Apply a protective coating to shield weakened teeth from further erosion.
• Restorative treatments: In severe cases, fillings or crowns may be necessary to repair damaged teeth.
• Dietary advice: Help your child adopt a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
• Proper oral hygiene: Teach gentle brushing with fluoride toothpaste and encourage rinsing after consuming acidic foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can enamel erosion be reversed?
A: While enamel can’t be rebuilt, early intervention can prevent further erosion and strengthen the teeth.
Q: What foods should my child avoid to protect their enamel?
A: Limit acidic foods (like lemons and vinegar) and sugary snacks. Encourage water instead of soda or juice.
Q: Is tooth sensitivity always caused by enamel erosion?
A: Not always. Sensitivity can also result from cavities, gum recession, or cracked teeth. A dentist can help determine the cause.
Contact
Please feel free to contact us with any general or medical enquiry by calling us.
