Sure Smile Clinic
Tooth Erosion

Tooth Erosion

Erosion is enamel dissolved by acid — from diet, reflux or vomiting — rather than by bacteria. It thins teeth, makes them look yellower and increasingly sensitive, and it's permanent.

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01 — Why it matters
Acid softens enamel for up to an hour.

Brushing straight after something acidic scrubs away enamel that's temporarily softened. Wait an hour, or rinse with water and chew sugar-free gum instead.

We can identify the acid source, protect what's left and rebuild worn teeth with bonding, onlays or veneers where the damage has already affected appearance and function.

02 — Symptoms

How erosion shows itself.

The signs vary, but most people notice one or more of these:

  1. 01Teeth looking increasingly yellow
  2. 02Thin, translucent biting edges
  3. 03Cupped hollows on molar surfaces
  4. 04Fillings standing proud of the tooth
  5. 05Increasing sensitivity to cold
  6. 06Rounded, smooth-looking tooth shapes
03 — Causes

Where it comes from.

The most common culprits:

Fizzy and energy drinks
Highly acidic, often sipped slowly.
Citrus and fruit juice
Frequent exposure erodes enamel.
Acid reflux
Stomach acid reaching the mouth at night.
Vomiting
Pregnancy sickness or eating disorders.
Wine
Occupational and social exposure.
Dry mouth
Less saliva to neutralise acid.
04 — When to see a dentist

Don't wait it out.

Speak to your our practice dentist if you're experiencing any of the following — book an appointment as soon as you can:

  • Teeth look thinner or more see-through at the edges.
  • Fillings feel like they're sticking up.
  • Cold drinks are increasingly uncomfortable.
  • You have reflux or frequent heartburn.
05 — What to do about the pain

In discomfort right now?

Widespread sensitivity that stops you eating comfortably is worth assessing — protective treatment is far cheaper than rebuilding worn teeth later.

06 — What's next

A plan, not a quick fix.

We record the wear with photographs and models to monitor it, identify and reduce the acid source, apply fluoride, and restore worn teeth where needed.

Our Credentials & Associations

Trusted, accredited and recognised

NHS
General Dental Council
Care Quality Commission
Juvéderm
C Thru