Pits in Tooth Enamel
The tooth’s enamel is the hard, outermost layer which protects the tooth. The enamel is actually the hardest tissue found in the human body. It covers the crown of the tooth or the visible portion which is above the gums. Enamel is also translucent. The dentin is the main portion of the tooth and responsible for the tooth’s color. In some cases, various things such as coffee, tea, red wine, juice, carbonated beverages, and cigarettes can stain the enamel.
It is important for patients to practice good oral hygiene with twice daily brushing and flossing. Patients should also regularly visit the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. The dental professional can remove many surface stains.
The tooth’s enamel aids in protecting the teeth from daily use. While the enamel is extremely hard, it can chip, crack, and become damaged. Enamel also helps protect the teeth from chemicals and hot or cold temperatures. Patients with enamel that has eroded often notice an increased sensitivity. When the enamel is damaged, it creates small holes which can allow for nerve exposure. While the body can repair broken bones, broken or chipped teeth will not repair on their own. The enamel does not contain living cells, hence why damaged enamel is permanent.
Enamel Erosion
When acids damage the tooth’s enamel, it results in erosion. Below are common causes for enamel erosion:
* Consuming large amounts of soft drinks or acidic juices. Bacteria in the mouth feeds on sugar and create acids which destroy the enamel.
* Eating sugary foods, starches, and candy
* Patients with a chronically dry mouth. The saliva helps clean the teeth and remove bacteria or food debris. Saliva also helps balance the mouth’s pH levels.
* Acid reflux, gastrointestinal issues, or heartburn which allows acids from the stomach in the mouth.
* Certain types of medications
* Consuming large amounts of alcohol
* A genetic tendency to have inadequate enamel on the teeth
* Environment factors
Environmental Causes of Erosion
Friction, normal wear and tear, stress, and corrosion can erode the tooth’s surface. Below is a summary of common environmental causes for erosion:
* Attrition: this is tooth-to-tooth contact which creates friction. This occurs when patients clench their jaw or grind the teeth. This condition is called bruxism and often occurs when patients are sleeping.
* Abrasion: abrasion is physical wear and tear of the tooth. It commonly occurs when patients use too much force when brushing the teeth, use incorrect flossing techniques, use the teeth as tools or chew on hard objects, or chew tobacco.
* Abfraction: occurs due to stress fractures in the teeth or cracks from flexing or bending of the teeth.
* Corrosion: occurs chemically when the acid content makes contact with the surface of the tooth. This can occur with certain medications, the consumption of highly acidic foods, acid reflux, alcoholism, or frequent vomiting.
The eating disorder bulimia is another common cause for the erosion of enamel and resulting tooth decay. Common traits of bulimia include binge eating and frequent vomiting, which exposes the teeth to stomach acid. The acid can erode the enamel and lead to tooth decay and cavities.
Healthy teeth and strong gums rely on saliva. Saliva aids in keeping the teeth clean and protects the enamel. Saliva also helps dilute acid, remove food debris, and fight off bacteria in the mouth.