Yes, especially if it’s neglected.
Acid reflux, also known as GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), is a condition that occurs when stomach acid and other digestive juices flow back up into the esophagus, throat and mouth. If left untreated, it can cause serious damage to the teeth.
The acidic contents of the stomach can erode enamel and cause tooth decay, discoloration, sensitivity and even gum disease. It is important to seek medical treatment for acid reflux in order to protect your teeth from damage.
How Does It Affect Your Health?
People with acid reflux are more prone to tooth erosion and gum diseases because of their low pH stomach acid. This acidic environment can start affecting the enamel of teeth if it is below 5.5 on the pH scale, whereas stomach acid has a pH level of 2 or lower.
The protection of the teeth is at risk due to regular acidic exposure, which can cause the enamel to thin and dissolve away over time. This can lead to the teeth weakening and becoming visible. When the protective enamel layer of your teeth is worn away, the sensitive inner dentin is exposed to bacteria and other damage, which can cause more serious health issues if left unchecked.
Taking proper care of your teeth by brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly will help prevent enamel erosion and maintain good oral hygiene. Your dental professionals are usually the first to notice any changes in your mouth and it doesn’t necessarily mean that you don’t have acid reflux if you don’t feel the burning sensations. That’s why it is so important to be aware of these indicators.
Signs of Teeth Erosion Due to Acid Reflux
If you have acid reflux, it is important to recognize the signs of acid reflux-related tooth erosion so that you can take steps to protect your teeth and prevent further damage.
Here are some common signs that your teeth may be eroding due to acid reflux:
- Increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Yellowing of teeth
- Erosion of tooth enamel
- Sharp tooth edges
- Irritation or pain in the mouth
Expert Tips to Prevent Acid Reflux From Damaging Your Teeth
Having acid reflux? Don’t let it damage your teeth!
Acid reflux may not seem like a dental health issue, but if left untreated, it can cause severe damage to your teeth and gums. Fortunately, with the right tips and strategies in place, you can prevent acid reflux from damaging your teeth. Discover the expert tips to protect your oral health from acid reflux today.
- Stick to a regular bedtime schedule and breakfast routine: Going to bed and waking up around the same time each day, as well as eating breakfast on a regular schedule can help to keep acid reflux from occurring at night.
- Chew Gum: Chewing gum after meals and snacks can help encourage saliva production, which helps to neutralize acid and reduce the risk of tooth erosion.
- Sip water after meals: Drinking water after meals can help to dilute and rinse away any acid-containing substances that may have settled on tooth enamel.
- Don’t brush right after vomiting: Brushing right after vomiting can spread stomach acids to other teeth and cause further erosion.
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks: Citrus fruits, tomatoes, tomato sauces, wine, carbonated and alcoholic beverages, vinegar, and high-fat foods are all potential culprits when it comes to damaging teeth due to acid reflux.
- Maintain good oral hygiene habits: Having healthy teeth is essential and it’s important to go for regular dental check-ups. Your dentist usually recommends visiting them every six months for a comprehensive clean and examination of the enamel.
Optimal oral hygiene requires that you brush and floss your teeth twice a day. It is also important to keep your dentist updated about any problems or issues you are experiencing.
- Limit snacking: Eating frequent snacks throughout the day can increase the risk of tooth erosion from repeated exposure to acids.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of experiencing acid reflux symptoms due to causing irritation in the esophagus and throat muscles.
- Consult with your doctor about medications: Prilosec, Prevacid, and Nexium can be beneficial in reducing acid reflux symptoms but may be damaging to your teeth as well if used over an extended period of time so you should talk to your doctor before taking any such medication long-term.
- Get a fluoride treatment: If your dentist finds signs of dental erosion due to acid reflux you may need a fluoride treatment to help prevent further damage to your teeth.
Start learning these expert tips now and take the necessary steps to prevent acid reflux from damaging your teeth!
Treatment Options for Acid Reflux & Restoring Tooth Enamel
- Medications: Over-the-counter antacids, such as Tums or Rolaids, can help neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn symptoms. Prescription medications, such as proton pump inhibitors, may also be necessary for long-term control of acid reflux.
- Lifestyle changes: Avoiding certain trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down or bending over after a meal can all help reduce acid reflux and its symptoms. Quitting smoking and losing weight can also help reduce acid reflux symptoms.
- Dietary changes: Eating foods that are low in acidity and high in fiber, such as oatmeal, fruits, and vegetables, can help reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. Drinking plenty of water can also help dilute the stomach acids that cause heartburn.
- Restoring tooth enamel: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding acidic foods can help restore tooth enamel that has been eroded by stomach acids. Using a fluoride mouthwash or toothpaste can also help rebuild enamel. Specialized treatments like dental sealants may be necessary to protect weakened teeth from further damage.
Take control of your dental health and start protecting your teeth from acid reflux today. Our expert tips will help you get on a path towards healthier teeth, even with acid reflux!
Don’t let acid reflux ruin your smile and teeth! Call Keels Family & Cosmetic Dentistry!
If you’re suffering from acid reflux, don’t let it ruin your smile and teeth! Visit us to get the expert care you need. Through comprehensive treatments such as lifestyle modifications, medications, and even surgical procedures, Keels Family & Cosmetic Dentistry can help reduce the effects of acid reflux on your teeth and gums.
With our experienced team of professionals, you’ll be able to enjoy a healthy smile again in no time!