Tooth erosion: what it is and why it matters

Tooth erosion is the steady loss of enamel from acid exposure. Unlike cavities that start from bacteria, erosion comes from direct acid contact — from drinks, reflux, or repeated vomiting. When enamel thins you’ll notice sensitivity, shiny flat spots, or rounded edges. Left alone, erosion can change your bite and make teeth weaker.

Common causes you can fix

Most causes are things you can change. Here are the usual suspects:

• Diet: soda, energy drinks, fruit juices, citrus and wine are highly acidic.
• Medical: acid reflux (GERD) and frequent vomiting expose teeth to stomach acid.
• Dry mouth: less saliva means less natural protection and more acid damage.
• Behavior: brushing hard right after an acid drink wears enamel faster.

Start by spotting which of these apply to you. Small habit fixes make a big difference fast.

Practical prevention steps you can use today

Follow these simple actions to slow or stop erosion:

• Cut back on acidic drinks. Swap soda and juice for water. If you do drink acid, use a straw and sip slowly.
• Wait 30–60 minutes to brush after eating or drinking acid. Acid softens enamel — brushing too soon scrubs it away.
• Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens weakened enamel and reduces sensitivity.
• Chew sugar-free gum after meals. That raises saliva flow and helps neutralize acids.
• Drink water or rinse with water after acidic foods to wash acid off teeth.
• Talk to your doctor if you have reflux or frequent vomiting — treating the cause protects your teeth.

If you already feel sensitivity or notice worn spots, don’t ignore it. A dentist can apply fluoride varnish, prescribe a stronger fluoride rinse, or use remineralizing pastes to rebuild enamel surface where possible.

For more advanced wear your dentist might suggest bonding, veneers, or crowns to restore shape and protect the tooth structure. If teeth are worn by grinding, a night guard reduces further damage.

Quick signs to see a dentist now: new sharp sensitivity to cold, visible thinning of tooth edges, yellowish color (dentin showing), or changes in bite. Early care keeps options simple and less expensive.

Tooth erosion is common but controllable. Focus on cutting acids, improving saliva, changing brushing timing, and treating medical causes. Those four moves alone will slow most enamel loss and keep your smile stronger for longer.