Acid wear second biggest threat to oral health

A global dental report identified Acid Wear – the softening and gradual loss of the tooth’s enamel- as one of the leading oral health concerns in the world and the biggest threat to enamel since cavities. World-class dental experts have pinpointed modern diet as the primary cause of enamel erosion. “The modern diet is an extremely acidic one and is one that can permanently damage tooth enamel. Repeated eating and drinking of low ph foodstuffs, such as citrus fruits and juices, can cause acid wear that leads to erosion,” said Dr. Mohammed Al Hadlaq, dentist assistant registrar ministry of health Kuwait – Sheikha Futouh Al Sabah Clinic (Shamiyah Polyclinic) , “The majority of my patients suffer from Acid Wear to some degree and unfortunately the condition is irreversible. The key is prevention, and this is only achieved through proper awareness of the condition and the willingness to make minor lifestyle changes,” he added. Acid Wear is the softening and gradual loss of the surface of the tooth’s enamel caused by the acids from everyday foods and drink such as fruit, fruit juices and soft drinks.  Over time, this softening of the tooth enamel – particularly when combined with abrasion during tooth brushing – can cause significant wear and may result in undesirable effects on the teeth, making them look dull, yellow, translucent and thin. Unlike cavities, Acid Wear affects the tooth’s whole surface and unfortunately, the undesirable effects are irreversible. “Nearly everybody with natural teeth will develop some signs of Acid Wear, and the number of people with the condition is rising due to the increased consumption of acidic foods and drinks,” said Dr Al Hadlaq. “Despite its prevalence, there is a lack of awareness and understanding about Acid Wear, which is a big concern.  As early effects of Acid Wear are difficult to detect, people should have regular dentist check-ups to ensure any signs of Acid Wear are spotted – and to take any measures to protect their teeth,” he added. The progressive erosion of tooth enamel from Acid Wear may result in the underlying dentine becoming exposed, resulting in sensitivity that is often felt as a twinge when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. In the longer-term, the effects of Acid Wear may mean that dental treatment is necessary in order to protect the tooth. Forms of treatment include the placement of a bonded filling, a veneer or a crown to restore the tooth to its former colour and shape. In extreme cases, the damage caused by Acid Wear may necessitate extraction of the affected tooth. “There have been extreme instances where enamel has been stripped from teeth in a period of six-months. Although enamel is the hardest substance in the body it’s important to remember it is only around 1-3 mm thick. However, there are many factors which contribute to the progression of Acid Wear, most notably the frequency and concentration of the acids in contact with the teeth and the volume and defence of an individual’s saliva. Everyone’s lifestyles, consumption habits and teeth are different and all can affect the rate at which Acid Wear affects teeth,” explained Dr. Al Hadlaq. There are a number of simple preventive steps that experts agree can be taken to minimise the risk of Acid Wear. These include avoiding brushing teeth immediately after consuming acidic food or drinks, as this is when the enamel is at its softest. Instead, brushing should be done before meals or at least one hour after eating. Soft or fizzy drinks shouldn’t be swished around or held in the mouth for prolonged periods – consideration should be given to using a straw placed towards the back of the mouth to keep the fluid away from the teeth. Teeth brushing should be done gently, but thoroughly, with a soft toothbrush and with a toothpaste that is low in abrasion, non acidic and has maximum fluoride availability. Regular dental check-ups should be undertaken, with any concerns being taken to a dental professional. By Kuwait Times