Acid reflux can damage your tooth enamel and that damage is permanent. Early prevention is critical to preserving your tooth enamel, but you have to know what to look for.
Some of the most common signs of tooth enamel damage due to acid reflux include sensitivity, increased amount of cavities, abscesses development, yellowing teeth, changes in bite, and chipped teeth. This article will detail what to look for so you can seek treatment as early as possible.
Sensitivity When Drinking Hot or Cold Beverages
Sensitivity to hot or cold beverages is one of the earliest signs that your tooth enamel is being damaged by acid reflux. If you find that you are experiencing this symptom, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible.
Cavities
Cavities are another common sign of tooth enamel damage. If you have cavities, it means that the acid has eaten away at your tooth enamel and created a hole. This is a serious problem because it can lead to an infection.
Abscesses
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms when there is an infection. If you have an abscess, it means that the acid has damaged your tooth so much that an infection has developed. This is a very serious condition and you should see your dentist as soon as possible.
Yellowing Teeth
Yellowing teeth without cause such as heavy tobacco use or high sugar intake can mean that your tooth enamel is damaged. This is because the acid has stained your teeth and made them yellow. If you notice that your teeth are starting to yellow, you should see your dentist to have them professionally cleaned.
Changes in Bite
If you notice that your teeth are not meeting together the way they used to, it’s possible that your acid reflux has damaged your tooth enamel, so much so that your bite has been permanently changed. This is a serious problem because it can cause problems with eating and speaking.
Chipped teeth
When your tooth enamel is damaged, your teeth are at a higher risk of damage such as chipping. If you notice that your teeth are chipping, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible. Chipped teeth can be very painful and they can also lead to infection.
Consider Contacting Your Dentist and Switching Up Your Routine
Acid reflux is a tough disease to live with because of the numerous health issues that you can face on top of having to deal with the disease itself. Tooth enamel damage is one of the top issues, but when detected early and acted upon through professional dental care, you can minimize the damage caused by acid reflux.
Regular dentist appointments, daily brushing, using the right toothpaste, and flossing are the first lines of defense to protect your teeth. A regular relationship with a dentist you trust is critical when it comes to early detection of tooth enamel damage.