The tooth enamel is the hard, translucent-white outer layer of your teeth. This layer is the first line of defense against bacteria and acids that can result in dental caries or cavities.
Even though it is the hardest substance in your body, the enamel may become weak and eroded due to certain lifestyle habits, eating habits, trauma, or other factors like vomiting or acid reflux.
A small amount of enamel is worn off every day but is quickly restored by the minerals in our body. However, if enamel erosion is aggressive, the enamel won't be regenerated. Once it is gone, it is gone for good.
Types of Enamel Damage
There are two main types of enamel damage:
•
Enamel Abrasion: Enamel is worn off if something rubs hard against your teeth. The most common cause of enamel abrasion is brushing your teeth aggressively with a hard-bristled toothbrush.
•
Enamel Erosion: Enamel erosion occurs when your teeth are exposed to too much sugar and acid. Both these things are found in certain food that is a regular part of your diet. People who experience stomach reflux or frequent vomiting (due to conditions like bad morning sickness or bulimia) may also experience enamel erosion.
Symptoms of Enamel Damage
Enamel loss is not very obvious but certain signs can clue you in to the fact that your enamel is no longer healthy. These include:
•
Tooth Color: If your teeth appear yellow showing the underlying dentin layer, this is due to enamel loss.
•
Tooth Sensitivity: Enamel erosion is often accompanied by tooth sensitivity triggered by hot, cold or sweet food.
•
Tooth Roughness: You may also notice that your teeth become rougher around the edge or look more porous. This is a sign of enamel loss.
How to Treat Enamel Loss
Even though enamel cannot regenerate, Gary J. Jacky, DMD and at Perrinville Family Dentistry can prevent further enamel loss and strengthen your weakened tooth through various conservative and non-invasive treatment. These include fluoride treatment and dental bonding.
We also recommend the use of fluoride toothpaste as well as reducing starchy food from your diet. Also remember to keep your six-monthly dental checkups to ensure your enamel remains in good health.
For more information on tooth health, schedule a consultation with us by calling us at (425) 616-0620.
Dental Blog | Dentist Edmonds, WA | Perrinville Family Dentistry Dr. Jacky from Perrinville Family Dentistry is offering this blog as a resource to the community. Click here to learn more about procedures, home care, and more! Perrinville Family Dentistry, 7533 Olympic View Dr. Suite C Edmonds, WA 98026 • (425) 616-0620 • perrinvillefamilydentistry.com • 12/1/2023 • Related Terms: dentist •
Hours
(425) 616-0620 
The tooth enamel is the hard, translucent-white outer layer of your teeth. This layer is the first line of defense against bacteria and acids that can result in dental caries or cavities.
Gary J. Jacky, DMD