Most people know that their teeth are covered with a protective layer known as enamel, and most people also know that when their enamel wears off, they can never replace it. When enamel wears off, dentists call this enamel erosion. There are multiple ways enamel erosion can occur, and there are a lot of effects this can have on your teeth.

The definition of enamel erosion

Enamel erosion is a term that dentists use to describe a condition when the enamel wears off a person's teeth. Enamel erosion is very common and can happen to anyone of any age. It is more common among older people, and it is a problem that a dentist can fix through a variety of different types of dental procedures. If you have enamel erosion, you should not ignore it. It will not go away on its own, and it will only worsen if left unresolved.

How enamel erosion occurs

If you are suffering from enamel erosion, it is likely that it occurred from one or more of the following things:

• Eating too many acidic foods – Eating foods that are highly acid lead to enamel erosion, because acid eats away at teeth and the layer of enamel is the first layer to go.
• Grinding your teeth – Grinding your teeth at night while you sleep places a great deal of stress on your teeth and can cause you to rub the enamel right off.
• Brushing too hard – If you brush your teeth with too much force, or if you use a hard-bristled brush, you might be destroying your teeth while you think you are only cleaning them.

Using your teeth in ways they should not be used can also cause you to wear the enamel right off.

The effects of enamel erosion

When the enamel wears off your teeth, your teeth are left in a very vulnerable state, as the enamel is there to protect them. This means that you will have a greater chance of developing cavities and other oral problems. Living with enamel erosion will also cause you to experience a lot of sensitivity with your teeth, and this happens because the inner parts of your teeth contain nerves. When the enamel is gone, the nerves are exposed, and this causes feelings of sensitivity with hot and cold foods and drinks.

If you are suffering from enamel erosion, you should visit a dentist. A dentist can help you find ways to protect your teeth and the negative effects enamel erosion can have on them. Contact a dental clinic like Kemper Pond Dental today if you would like to schedule an appointment.