Reasons for tooth enamel loss.

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Reasons for Enamel Loss
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What is tooth enamel?

• Enamel is the thin outer covering of the tooth.
• This tough shell is the hardest tissue in the
  human body.
• It covers the crown which is the part of the
  tooth that's visible outside of the gums.
• Sometimes coffee, tea, cola, red wine, fruit
  juices, and cigarettes stain the enamel on your
  teeth.

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• Causes enamel erosion

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What causes enamel erosion?

• Tooth erosion happens when acids wear away the
  enamel on teeth.
• Excessive soft drink consumption (high levels of
  phosphoric and citric acids)
• Dry mouth or low salivary flow (xerostomia)
• Diet (high in sugar and starches)
• Acid reflux disease (GERD)
• Medications (aspirin, antihistamines)
• Genetics (inherited conditions)
• Environmental factors (friction, wear and tear,
  stress, and corrosion)

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• Acid Erosion

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What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods or
  drinks
• Rough or uneven edges on the teeth, which can
  crack or chip when they lose their enamel
• Smooth, shiny surfaces on the teeth, a sign of
  mineral loss
• Yellow teeth
• Cupping, or dents, that show up where you bite
  and chew

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How Can You Protect Your Enamel?

• Rinse your mouth with water right after you eat
  or drink something acidic. 
• Use a straw for sodas and fruit juices so they
  bypass the teeth.
• Finish a meal with a glass of milk or a piece of
  cheese to cancel out acids.
• Drink more water during the day if you have dry
  mouth.
• Use a soft toothbrush, and try not to brush too
  hard.
• Wait at least an hour to brush after you've had
  acidic foods or drinks. They soften the enamel
  and make it more prone to damage from your
  toothbrush.
• Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash

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• Thank You Mangan Dental Group - Dr. Steve
  Mangan 2011 North Van Buren Street, Little Rock,
  AR 72207 [phone] http//www.mangandental
  .com