Dental erosion

Dental erosion is the chemical loss of tooth tissue caused by acids that are not produced by oral bacteria. It softens and gradually removes enamel and, in advanced cases, dentin.

Hydroxyapatite: A calcium phosphate mineral that forms the main mineral component of tooth enamel and dentin. Acids erode teeth by dissolving this mineral from the surface.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease: A chronic condition in which stomach contents reflux into the esophagus and may reach the mouth. Repeated reflux can expose teeth to stomach acid.
Basic erosive wear examination: A clinical scoring system for recording the severity and distribution of erosive tooth wear. It helps clinicians document erosion and monitor changes over time.
Dental caries: A biofilm-mediated disease that causes localized demineralization and breakdown of tooth tissue. Caries involves acids produced by oral bacteria; erosion does not.
Critical pH: The pH below which a solution can dissolve a particular mineral under specified conditions. It helps explain why acidic fluids can dissolve tooth mineral.
Bulimia nervosa: An eating disorder involving recurrent binge eating and compensatory behaviors, which can include self-induced vomiting. Repeated vomiting exposes tooth surfaces to gastric acid.
Dietary counseling: Guidance that helps people make informed choices about food and drink. Reducing the frequency of acidic drinks can lower repeated acid challenges.
Attrition: Tooth-tissue loss caused by contact between opposing teeth during function or parafunction. Attrition removes tissue through tooth-to-tooth contact rather than acid dissolution.
Saliva: The fluid in the mouth that lubricates tissues and supports digestion, buffering, and mineral balance. Saliva clears acids and supplies minerals that can reharden softened tooth surfaces.
Citrus fruit: Fruit from the genus Citrus, including lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits. Frequent contact with acidic citrus juices can contribute to enamel erosion.

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