Our teeth are equipped with a self-defense mechanism known as tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is a thin layer on the surfaces of teeth to help reduce harmful materials including bacteria from entering a tooth and causing infections or worse. However, tooth enamel is often not strong enough to combat harmful acids and foods and drinks alone. It requires attention and risk prevention to ensure it can effectively protect your mouth for the rest of your life.
Always be aware of the numerous causes of dental erosion. Beyond excessive sugar consumption including soft drink and food consumption, there are numerous other factors that can lead to the wearing away of your tooth enamel. This includes medications that can cause dry mouth, as well as issues arising from genetics, environmental factors, and acid reflux disease.
Fortunately, dental erosion can be impeded and slowed. Beyond avoiding potential causes of dental erosion, it is important to always take the time to keep your mouth clean. This includes brushing and flossing daily, focusing on a healthy diet, and increasing saliva production in your mouth by using saliva producing tools such as mouthwash or sugarless chewing gum. Furthermore, always make sure any cleaning tools you use are safe and effective, including using a toothbrush that has soft bristles.
No matter which dental erosion treatments you select, the real importance is the oral health benefits it can give. If you would like Dr. Kevin Packard and our team at Creekside Dental Ellensburg to bring you in for a comprehensive exam to determine which treatment is right for you, please schedule an appointment at our dentist office in Ellensburg, Washington, by calling us at 509-933-4800.