What Is Tooth Erosion? Causes, Symptoms, and How to Prevent It

By Dr. Mason Haddow

Tooth erosion isn’t something most people think about until they start experiencing sensitivity, discoloration, or thinning enamel. Unlike cavities, which are caused by bacteria, tooth erosion happens when acid wears away the enamel over time. It’s a slow but serious process that can lead to weakened teeth, pain, and costly dental procedures.

The good news? Tooth erosion is preventable, and early damage can sometimes be managed with the right care.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

• What causes tooth erosion
• Early warning signs to watch for
• The long-term effects of untreated enamel loss
• Who is most at risk
• Prevention and treatment options

If you’ve ever wondered why your teeth feel more sensitive or why they look duller than before, this article is for you.

Key Takeaways

• Tooth erosion occurs when acidic foods, drinks, and habits wear away enamel, leading to sensitivity, discoloration, and weakened teeth.
• Common causes include acidic diets, acid reflux, dry mouth, teeth grinding, and overbrushing.
• Symptoms range from mild sensitivity to visible thinning, cracks, and increased risk of cavities.
• Enamel cannot regenerate, but treatments like fluoride, bonding, and crowns can protect damaged teeth.
• Preventing tooth erosion requires good oral hygiene, limiting acidic foods, staying hydrated, and using protective treatments.

What Causes Tooth Erosion?

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, but it’s not invincible. Over time, acidic substances and certain habits can wear it down, leading to erosion.

Common Causes of Tooth Erosion

Here are some of the common causes of Tooth Erosion:

1. Acidic Foods and Beverages

Regularly consuming highly acidic foods and drinks weakens enamel.

• Citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, grapefruits)
• Soda and carbonated drinks (including diet soda)
• Wine, coffee, and tea
• Sports and energy drinks

Even if you brush after eating, the acids soften enamel, making it vulnerable to erosion.

2. Acid Reflux and Stomach Issues

People with GERD (acid reflux) or frequent vomiting (due to pregnancy, eating disorders, or illness) expose their teeth to strong stomach acids, which are far more erosive than food acids.

3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Saliva helps wash away acids, so if you have a chronic dry mouth, your teeth are more vulnerable to erosion. Causes include:

• Dehydration
• Certain medications (like antihistamines and antidepressants)
• Autoimmune conditions (such as Sjögren’s syndrome)

4. Over Brushing or Using Abrasive Toothpaste

Brushing too hard or using whitening or charcoal-based toothpaste can wear away enamel, especially if done right after eating acidic foods.

5. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Grinding or clenching your teeth—whether due to stress or sleep disorders—can physically wear down enamel over time.

6. Frequent Snacking on Sugary or Starchy Foods

Sugary and starchy foods fuel acid-producing bacteria, which weaken enamel and accelerate erosion.

Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Erosion

Tooth erosion happens gradually, which means many people don’t notice it until they start experiencing discomfort or cosmetic changes.

Early Signs of Tooth Erosion

• Increased sensitivity – Hot, cold, or sweet foods might cause discomfort.
• Dull or yellowing teeth – As enamel wears away, the underlying dentin (which is yellower) becomes more visible.
• Rounded or smoothed-out edges – Teeth may start looking more worn down.

Advanced Symptoms

• Transparent or thinning teeth – Front teeth may appear slightly translucent.
• Small cracks or chips – Enamel loss makes teeth more fragile.
• Cupping – Small indentations on the chewing surfaces of molars.
• Persistent tooth sensitivity – The more enamel you lose, the more sensitive your teeth become.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious dental issues, which we’ll cover next.

How Does Tooth Erosion Affect Your Oral Health?

Tooth erosion isn’t just about appearance—it has long-term consequences for your oral health and overall well-being.

1. Increased Tooth Sensitivity

As enamel thinners, nerves become more exposed. This means:

• Cold drinks feel unbearable
• Hot foods cause sharp pain
• Sweet or acidic foods trigger discomfort

2. Higher Risk of Cavities

Once enamel is gone, your teeth are more vulnerable to decay. Unlike cavities, which can be filled, lost enamel cannot be restored naturally.

3. Weakened, Fragile Teeth

Eroded teeth are more likely to crack, chip, or break, leading to costly repairs like crowns or veneers.

4. Changes in Bite and Jaw Pain

Severe enamel loss can alter your bite alignment, leading to jaw pain, headaches, and TMJ issues.

Who Is at Risk for Tooth Erosion?

While anyone can experience tooth erosion, certain people are at higher risk.

1. People with Acid Reflux or GERD

Stomach acid is highly corrosive to teeth, making GERD patients especially vulnerable.

2. Frequent Consumers of Acidic Drinks

If you regularly drink soda, energy drinks, or citrus juices, your enamel may be under constant attack.

3. Those Who Suffer from Dry Mouth

Without enough saliva, acids stay on your teeth longer, increasing the risk of erosion.

4. Athletes or People Who Frequently Use Sports Drinks

Sports drinks contain high levels of acid and sugar, making them worse than soda for tooth enamel.

5. People Who Grind Their Teeth

Bruxism weakens teeth over time, making them more susceptible to erosion and fractures.

If you fall into any of these categories, it’s time to take extra steps to protect your enamel.

How to Prevent Tooth Erosion: Daily Habits That Help

The best way to deal with tooth erosion? Prevent it from happening in the first place.

Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks

• Cut back on sodas, citrus fruits, and energy drinks.
• Drink acidic beverages through a straw to limit contact with your teeth.
• Rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods.

Brush Smarter, Not Harder

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Wait at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing.
• Choose a fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen enamel.

Stay Hydrated and Combat Dry Mouth

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Use sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production.
• Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, which can dry out your mouth.

Use a Mouthguard if You Grind Your Teeth

Wearing a nightguard can protect your teeth from grinding-related damage.

Get Regular Dental Checkups

Your dentist can spot early signs of erosion and provide treatments like fluoride applications or dental sealants to protect your teeth.

Can Tooth Erosion Be Reversed? Treatment Options Explained

Once enamel is gone, it can’t regenerate. However, your dentist can restore and protect weakened teeth with treatments such as:

• Fluoride Treatments – Strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
• Dental Bonding – A tooth-colored resin that covers eroded areas.
• Crowns or Veneers – Protect severely eroded teeth from further damage.

If you’re experiencing tooth erosion symptoms, early treatment can save you from bigger (and more expensive) problems later.

Looking for Expert Dental Care in Lathrup Village?

At Premier Image Dentistry, we specialize in preventing and treating tooth erosion with:

• Comprehensive exams to catch erosion early
• Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
• Custom night guards for patients with bruxism
• Personalized treatment plans to restore damaged teeth

If you’re worried about tooth erosion, don’t wait until it gets worse. Book an appointment today and keep your smile strong for years to come!

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Smile from Tooth Erosion

Tooth erosion is a slow but serious dental issue. With smart habits and regular dental care, you can protect your teeth before irreversible damage occurs.

Your enamel is precious, take care of it!