If you suffer from acid reflux, your teeth may be in danger. We pride ourselves on patient education at Ardas Family Dental in Parker, which is why we want to inform the public of this often-overlooked cause of tooth sensitivity.
Acid removes minerals from enamel, the hard outer surface of teeth. Without enamel, the sensitive inner layers of the teeth are more exposed to heat and coldness. In people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the sphincter separating the stomach from the esophagus opens when a person swallows, allowing stomach acid to escape. Stomach acid is highly corrosive—the sensation of it burning the esophagus is misleadingly called “heartburn”—and it damages teeth it comes into contact with. Because of their position, the upper back teeth are the most vulnerable.
Dentists can recognize acid reflux by its distinctive pattern of erosion. It causes the teeth to appear glazed and white before becoming pitted. Dental sealants can help protect enamel, but once enamel mass has been lost, it can only be restored with prosthetics such as partial crowns. To reduce their chance of developing GERD, patients should avoid smoking and consuming large amounts of foods such as red meat, onions and garlic, and citric acid before lying down.
Dr. Roopi Kattaura operates Ardas Family Dental at 10233 S Parker Rd, Suite 205, Parker, Colorado. Call 720-459-8420 or visit Ardas Family Dental and fill out a contact sheet.
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