Dental enamel is an incredibly strong substance that protects your teeth from decay and damage. However, if your enamel erodes, it exposes the softer, underlying layer of dentin. The more your teeth erode, the greater your risk for decay and cavities. In addition, because dentin is not as white as enamel, it can make your teeth look discolored, even when there is no decay present. If the erosion is particularly severe, it could even change the shape of your teeth. Fortunately, at our Salt Lake City practice, we offer tooth erosion treatment. We can also provide guidance on how to protect your teeth and prevent erosion in the future.

Causes of Tooth Erosion

There are a number of factors that can cause tooth erosion. They include:

• Poor dental hygiene: If bacteria are allowed to build up on your teeth, they will eventually begin to eat away at your dental enamel.
• Diet: Foods and beverages that are high in acidity are among the worst culprits for dental erosion. Sour candies, soda, and fruit juices can all cause significant damage. Plus, they are high in sugar, which leads to a buildup of bacteria.
• Dry mouth: If you suffer from this health condition, you do not produce enough saliva to wash away bacteria and bits of food.
• Bulimia or acid reflux: Exposure to your body’s own natural acids can also cause severe damage to your teeth.
• Medication: Some drugs, such as Vitamin C and aspirin, are high in acidity.
• Bruxism: If you frequently grind your teeth, this not only erodes the enamel; it can also affect the structure of the underlying dentin, as well.

Treatment Options

Just as there are many causes of tooth erosion, your cosmetic dentist offers numerous treatment options, as well. The one you choose will depend on the degree of erosion you have suffered, as well as your cosmetic and restorative goals. Your options include:

• Porcelain veneers: By attaching thin shells of porcelain to of your teeth, Dr. Wright can provide a new, white front for your teeth. Veneers can also change the shape of your teeth, so they may be an excellent option if erosion has left you with small or irregularly shaped teeth.
• Dental crowns: Often, erosion can completely weaken the structure of your tooth. In this case, a dental crown, one of the most popular restorative dentistry treatments, may be the only way to save your tooth. These teeth-shaped caps are custom-made to match your surrounding teeth, and they will allow your compromised teeth to function naturally.
• Composite resin fillings: If erosion has resulted in a cavity, or if only a small area of your tooth has been affected, a tooth-colored composite filling may be the best treatment option. Dental composite can be applied to the outside of the tooth, as well as the inside.
• Inlays or onlays: If your tooth is not damaged enough to warrant a crown but you need more than a composite filling, Dr. Wright may recommend an inlay or onlay. Often called “partial crowns” these porcelain restorations fit over the tops of your molars. 
• Bruxism treatment: If your teeth have been damaged because of tooth grinding, Dr. Wright may provide a mouth guard, in addition to any necessary restorative or cosmetic treatment. This mouth guard will prevent dental damage in the future.
• Lifestyle changes: If you have suffered only minor tooth erosion, changes in behavior may be enough to reverse the damage. Altering your diet, using fluoride toothpaste, and brushing more proactively may save your smile.

Suffering from Tooth Erosion? Find Out Which Treatment Is Right for You!

If your smile has been compromised by dental erosion, we have a treatment that will fit your needs. Call Eagle Gate Dental to book your consultation and restore your smile.