Your teeth aren't literally dissolving like sugar in water, but you might be experiencing dental erosion, which is the wearing away of the tooth surface due to acids. This process softens and dissolves the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth.
Causes of Dental Erosion
Dental erosion is primarily caused by acids that attack your enamel. These acids can come from several sources:
- Acidic Foods and Drinks: Frequent consumption of acidic substances like citrus fruits (oranges, lemons), carbonated drinks (colas, sodas), fruit juices, and wine significantly contributes to erosion. healthdirect.gov.au, betterhealth.vic.gov.au
- Stomach Acid: Excessive vomiting (due to conditions like bulimia or other illnesses) exposes your teeth to stomach acid, which is highly corrosive and causes significant enamel damage. healthdirect.gov.au
- Certain Medications: Some medications can contribute to a dry mouth, creating a more acidic environment in the mouth. (Note: This information is not explicitly stated in the references but is a common contributing factor).
Understanding the Process
Acidic substances dissolve the protective enamel layer, exposing the underlying dentin, which is softer and more susceptible to damage. This can lead to increased sensitivity, discoloration, and eventually, cavities and tooth decay. my.clevelandclinic.org, ostrowonline.usc.edu
What to Do
If you suspect you have dental erosion, it's crucial to see a dentist. Early detection is essential for effective treatment. Your dentist can diagnose the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate treatment strategies, which may involve:
- Changes in diet and lifestyle
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental bonding or other restorative procedures. my.clevelandclinic.org
It's important to note that some products, like dissolving teeth whitening strips, moonoralbeauty.com, trysnow.com, trysnow.com dissolve in the mouth, but they do not dissolve your teeth. They are designed to be temporary and easily removed.
