Acid regurgitation resulting from
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causes tooth structure to dissolve. GERD is a common condition affecting 10 to
20% of the population in Western countries. A study by Pace showed a 24% prevalence of
dental erosion as a manifestation of the disease. It is usually measured in
areas of the teeth that do not contact, so the acid is the the known cause. Now a study also measures the amount of tooth loss. In this new report (ADA Journal, March 2012), authors show that both
front teeth and back teeth are affected and the amount of tooth wear is twice
as high on surfaces where teeth touch when combined with acid reflux. Normal tooth wear, with the addition of acid,
can be rapid and devastating to your teeth. If you have excessive or rapid loss of tooth
structure, see your prosthodontist for advice and ask your physician about
diagnosis and treatment of acid reflux.
Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 |
www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309
Tooth erosion happens when acids wear away the enamel on teeth. Enamel erosion can be caused by the following:
ReplyDeleteExcessive soft drink consumption (high levels of phosphoric and citric acids)
Fruit drinks (some acids in fruit drinks are more erosive than battery acid)
Dry mouth or low salivary flow (xerostomia)
Diet (high in sugar and starches)
Acid reflux disease (GERD)
Gastrointestinal problems
Medications (aspirin, antihistamines)
Genetics (inherited conditions)
Environmental factors (friction, wear and tear, stress, and corrosion).
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