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Attack by Acid!

There is a cause of permanent and severe loss of tooth structure you need to know about. The culprit: gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) also known as “heart burn” (1).

The name alone sounds threating, which it is. Even scarier than the name, is the fact that it is a common condition that occurs when stomach acids travel upward into the esophagus, which leads to acid reflux-induced erosion of your teeth!

According to the National Science Foundation, acid in the stomach is extremely low (meaning highly acidic), having a pH level ranging from of 1.0-3.0.

The Australian Dental Association states tooth enamel becomes soft and can be easily damaged when the pH level in your mouth drops below 5.5.

Our teeth are constantly being exposed to food and beverages with a low pH level (2) that put our enamel at risk of erosion.


Every time we enjoy a sports drink, fruit juice, or caffeinated beverage the pH level in our mouth drops dramatically. Ironically, it’s those same beverages that often prompt acid reflux to occur.  WebMD states, fatty foods, dairy, citric fruits, tomatoes, alcohol and even chocolate are the biggest triggers of reflux.

When you experience acid reflux, your teeth are at higher risk of chemical erosion occurring. Over time the root surfaces of your teeth can become exposed. If left untreated the tooth  
structure itself becomes compromised and could require complex dental treatment such as veneers, crowns, fillings or potentially a root canal treatment.

Luckily, the team at Woollahra Dental Practice can help detect early signs of acid reflux-induced erosion during your regularly six monthly hygiene appointments. Taking pro-active measures for the wellbeing of your teeth is vital to the longevity of your smile. At your appointment you will be given valuable information on what you can do at home in between visits to keep your enamel strong.    

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