Woman Holding an Acidic Orange Showing her Strong and White Enamel

4 Types and Causes of Worn Tooth Enamel

Enamel wear is a common part of life. Luckily, there are ways we can protect our teeth and prevent further damage. Avoiding enamel wear starts with our daily habits and dental health. If you notice any signs of worn tooth enamel, schedule a visit with your dentist. Check out the four main causes of worn tooth enamel and some tips on how to keep your teeth in good shape.

The 4 Types of Tooth Enamel Wear and Their Causes

  • Erosion

    Erosion is the loss of tooth structure through exposure to acids—such as those in our diet.

    Acidic Foods & Beverages

    Citrus fruits and sugary foods as well as soda and fruit juices are highly acidic. Limiting the frequency of these foods and using a straw with these drinks can help prevent erosion and enamel wear.

    Acidic Fruit Orange

  • Erosion

    Erosion is the loss of tooth structure through exposure to acids—such as those in our diet.

    Medications

    Some medications can decrease saliva production, which causes dry mouth. Saliva is vital to the remineralization process, and without enough of it, your enamel can’t strengthen itself as quickly—leaving you vulnerable to wear and erosion.

    Capsules

  • Erosion

    Erosion is the loss of tooth structure through exposure to acids—such as those in our diet.

    Acid Reflux

    Acid reflux is the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus and then your mouth. Over time these acids can erode your teeth. If you’re experiencing severe acid reflux, seek treatment with your doctor.

    Acidic Fluid in Stomach

  • Abrasion

    Abrasion is the progressive loss of tooth enamel caused by foreign objects that create friction against your teeth.

    Incorrect Tooth Brushing

    Vigorous horizontal brushing with a hard-bristled toothbrush should be avoided. You should also be careful not to use a toothpaste that is too abrasive as this can contribute to wear on weakened enamel. Try Pronamel®, which is designed to strengthen weakened enamel, and protect your teeth from further damage.

    Toothbrush with Soft Bristles

  • Abrasion

    Abrasion is the progressive loss of enamel caused by foreign objects that create friction against your teeth.

    Teeth as Tools

    Using your teeth as a tool, such as tearing tape or biting your nails, can chip or crack a tooth, and may eventually lead to further damage to enamel. Try not to use your teeth in this manner and see your dentist if you think you show signs of abrasion.

    Duct Tape

  • Attrition

    Attrition is the loss of hard tooth substances caused by tooth-on-tooth contact.

    Teeth Grinding

    Teeth grinding can remove some of the enamel from your teeth. Chewing sugar-free gum during the day and wearing a bite guard at night are simple ways to help prevent further tooth enamel wear. Talk to your dentist if you think you show signs of attrition.

    Denture in a Case

  • Abfraction

    Abfraction is a wedge-shaped lesion at the gumline caused by excess stress from tooth-on-tooth action.

    Clenching and Misalignment of Jaw

    There are a few different causes of abfraction, the main ones being extra pressure from clenching your jaw or a misalignment of your bite. See your dentist if you think you show signs of abfraction.

    X-ray of Human Jaw

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