Signs of Weakened Enamel on the Teeth

Tooth enamel may become weakened due to a number of factors, resulting in increased sensitivity and other symptoms. Treatments for enamel erosion include fluoride treatments, which may be applied at your dentist's office. If erosion is extensive, crowns may be placed over eroded teeth to reduce sensitivity and decrease further damage.

Sensitivity

• When enamel has eroded from teeth, teeth become very sensitive, notes WebMD. Pain may occur when eating sweet foods like candy or cookies. Hot drinks like coffee or tea, and hot foods like soup, may cause sharp pains. Some individuals are also sensitive to cold foods like ice cream, as well as cold drinks.

Appearance of Teeth

• Weakened enamel also changes the appearance of teeth. Enamel covers dentin, the substance inside teeth, which is usually yellow. When enamel breaks down, more dentin is exposed, making teeth appear yellow, notes WebMD. Teeth may appear more smooth and shiny when enamel has eroded. In addition, teeth may appear jagged, with rough edges, according to WebMD.

Causes of Erosion

• Erosion is caused by acids that break down tooth enamel, according to WebMD. These acids may come from foods like citrus fruits and juices, pickles, vinegar, apples or soft drinks, notes Colgate.com. Diets high in sugars also cause erosion. Gastric reflux disease, a condition in which stomach acid moves up the esophagus and often into the mouth, is a cause of enamel erosion. Saliva protects tooth enamel, so individuals who suffer from dry mouth may display weakened enamel. In addition, clenching your teeth may cause erosion.

Prevention

• To prevent enamel erosion, brush your teeth twice daily. Make sure one of those times is right before you go to bed at night, so that your teeth are protected from acids overnight. Brush with a toothpaste containing fluoride, and floss daily. Enjoy soft drinks and fruit juices in moderation, and do not brush for one hour after consuming them. These drinks weaken enamel, so brushing may cause damage, according to Colgate.com. When you do drink acidic beverages, drink through a straw. Chew sugar free gum to increase saliva, which protects tooth enamel.