ENAMEL LOSS

What the heck is enamel, anyways?  Enamel is the thin, translucent, hard outer layer of the teeth that protects them from the daily stress of chewing, biting and grinding; temperature of hot and cold foods and drinks; and erosive acids.  Despite being the strongest material in your body, a variety of factors can cause enamel erosion or loss of enamel.  Loss of enamel increases teeth sensitivity, exposes stains on teeth, increases vulnerability to cavities and decay, and creates rough and irregular teeth edges and dents on teeth surfaces.

Enamel loss is primarily caused by erosive acids that wear away enamel over time.  Excessive consumption of soft drinks, which contain high amounts of phosphoric and citric acids, and other acidic drinks and foods such as fruit drinks and sour foods or candies, is the leading cause of acid-related enamel loss.  Coke, for example, contains citric and phosphoric acids.  Frequent consumption of medicines and supplements containing high acid content, including aspirin, antihistamines and vitamin C supplements also cause enamel loss.

Environmental factors in the mouth, or the physical wear and tear from daily friction and stress on the teeth, are another contributing factor of enamel loss.  Environmental causes of enamel loss include friction from clenching or grinding your teeth, especially during sleep, and wear and tear from brushing your teeth too hard, improper flossing, biting hard objects or chewing tobacco.

Low saliva production is also another cause of enamel loss.  Saliva strengthens both your teeth and their enamel by coating them with calcium and other strengthening minerals.  Saliva also protects against enamel loss by diluting and washing away erosive acids and other wastes left over from foods and drinks and also by producing substances that fight against mouth bacteria and disease that can cause enamel loss.  While a healthy amount of saliva production can protect enamel from erosive effects of acidic foods and drinks, excessive consumption of acidic foods and drinks decreases saliva production and saliva's ability to strengthen teeth and enamel.  Excessive plaque can also contribute to enamel loss, so regular brushing, flossing, dental checkups and cleanings are essential!!!  Toothpastes with fluoride in them can strengthen and remineralize slight to moderate enamel breakdown; a great way to protect your enamel!