The natural processes of the bacteria in your mouth, as well as acidic foods and beverages, can cause a microscopic erosion of the mineral crystals that make up your tooth enamel. If this microscopic enamel erosion is not countered by regular, daily exposure to fluoride it can pose several threats to your oral health.
The microscopic erosion creates tiny channels in the enamel. This can lead to tooth sensitivity. If you don’t have adequate fluoride exposure enamel erosion can create microscopic channels through the enamel, exposing the sensitive dentin layer of the tooth. Common symptoms include a sharp or stinging pain when you eat or drink something that is hot, cold, sweet or acidic.
If Dr. Spear feels your tooth sensitivity issues are related to enamel erosion he might suggest a basic fluoride treatment or fluoride supplements. In conjunction with using a fluoride tooth paste, a fluoride treatment or fluoride supplements can strengthen tooth enamel and reduces sensitivity issues.
At the same time, enamel erosion can also increase your chances of developing tooth decay problems. Even a small amount of tooth decay can spread and cause significant problems. It could even damage the dentin layer of the tooth or even infect the root.
If you have sensitive teeth caused by enamel erosion, or you’ve noticed one or more new cavities in your teeth, please call Dr. Spear at 817.920.1488 to schedule an appointment. Addressing the problem early can help reverse enamel erosion or repair tooth decay before it has a chance to develop into something that is even more serious.