If you think the hardest substance in your body is a bone, think again. The tooth enamel, the layer which covers your teeth and shields their surface, is a protective coating that protects your teeth from daily wear and tears. This is the hardest substance in your body, but that does not mean it is immune from damage.
While the teeth’ enamel is strong, it is susceptible to damage when you do not take proper dental care. Enamel erosion can happen for several reasons, including teeth grinding, low salivary flow, chronic acid reflux, and usage of medications. If you suspect poor dental health due to enamel erosion, visit a dentist in Lake Forest, CA, today.
Signs that your teeth enamel is eroding
- Sensitivity.
The tooth enamel is supposed to protect your teeth from the effects of foods with extreme temperatures. However, if you start feeling a twinge of pain every time you eat ice cream or hot soup, your teeth may be trying to send you a sign. The pain is usually less during the early stages of erosion but keeps on getting worse if you do not seek treatment.
- Dents.
If you see tiny dents on the surface of your teeth that were not present before, it is a sure sign of enamel erosion. Dentists also refer to this process as cupping, and it occurs when the acid inside your mouth wears away the enamel, leaving small dents. It is crucial to seek professional dental care when cupping first begins to avoid further damage.
- Yellowing.
If your teeth are yellowing, do not consider it normal just because you have seen yellow teeth in many people. Your teeth contain a yellowish layer called dentin which becomes visible when the enamel starts wearing down. This kind of yellowing differs from the yellow stains that appear due to smoking and the consumption of certain foods and drinks. Not only will your teeth look yellow, but they will also become dull and translucent.
- Chipped teeth.
When your enamel erodes and becomes weak, your teeth may become weak and easily chip or crack away. Your teeth will no longer be able to bear too much pressure and become vulnerable to chipping when you bite on crunchy food items.
- Rounded or rough edges.
When your tooth enamel starts eroding, the edges of your teeth may no longer remain smooth. Instead, they take on a rounded and rough appearance. It is crucial to see your dentist when this happens to avoid further issues like easy chipping and cracking.
