Some causes of enamel erosion are hard to talk about. If you are coming from Rockwood, our team offers a private, unhurried assessment where you share only what you choose and leave with a protective plan.
Stomach acid is strong, and when it reaches the mouth often, through vomiting, severe morning sickness, reflux or other health reasons, it can wear enamel away. That wear is called erosion: tooth structure lost to acid that bacteria did not create. Decay is a different condition, though both can affect the same teeth.
These causes can feel personal, even embarrassing, and some people delay a dental visit because of them. There is no need. Drinks, diet, grinding and brushing habits can create similar-looking wear, so the dentist examines the pattern carefully and treats your history as one piece of information among many, never as something to judge.
Anyone making the trip from Rockwood can expect a calm, private conversation. We explain why we ask each question, and you can choose what to share and when. Some people prefer to talk about sensitive matters after the examination, or with the door closed and no one else present; just tell us. Then we focus on protecting your teeth.
If you can recall when a difference first appeared, and whether it is still changing, that helps. Older photos or dental records may be useful, but only an examination can explain what they show.
Acid from the stomach often affects the tongue side of upper teeth, although patterns vary. Edges may look translucent and chewing surfaces may dip. The dentist charts what is present; appearance alone cannot reveal how long it took or whether it is still active.
Cold, sweet or sour foods may cause discomfort, sometimes worse during periods of illness. Describe triggers and duration. Sensitivity is not a measure of enamel loss, and a single very painful tooth may need assessment for another cause.
Pregnancy sickness, migraines, digestive conditions, reflux or other reasons for repeated vomiting may be relevant. Share only what you wish to. We can protect the teeth and, if you would like, discuss how medical support might help with a source dental care cannot resolve.
Please do not stop any prescribed treatment on your own. If you would like, bring a list of medicines and any health information you are comfortable sharing, so our advice can complement the care you already receive.
Enamel lost to acid will not grow back, and a repair cannot prevent future episodes from affecting the teeth. So the first goals are usually comfort and protection: reducing the impact of each exposure, easing sensitivity and supporting your general health. Decisions about rebuilding surfaces come afterwards and are made carefully.
Not every worn area needs restoring, especially while exposures are still frequent. The decision depends on depth, comfort, function, appearance and whether wear is progressing. Ask the dentist what will be monitored and what would change the recommendation. Sometimes it makes sense to wait until a period of illness has passed.
Patient information: American Dental Association — dental erosion
Relating the wear to your history helps explain what has happened. We describe likely contributors honestly, recognising that more than one is often involved and that circumstances change over time.
Advice should be realistic for your health, work and family. Let us know what feels difficult, so we can offer simple steps that help even during hard weeks.
If restoration is suggested, ask what it will achieve and whether now is the right time. Each repair should protect, comfort or restore function, rather than simply even out appearance.
There is nothing to prepare unless you want to. If a note of symptoms or a sample day of eating and drinking would help, a brief, honest one is ideal, and you can leave out anything you prefer not to write down.
We ask about what you have noticed, your health and any medicines. Questions about vomiting, reflux, dryness or diet are asked respectfully, with the reason explained. You are welcome to answer later or in private.
Teeth, existing restorations and bite are assessed. Notes and photographs, or other suitable records, document the current state. Further investigations are suggested only if they would answer a specific question.
We discuss protecting the teeth during episodes, managing sensitivity and whether any surface needs repair now or later. With your consent, advice can be coordinated with your doctor. Ask about stages and estimated costs before restorative work.
At follow-up we consider symptoms, how the plan has worked and any change in the teeth. Timing depends on findings and on your circumstances. If wear continues or concerns remain, we may look further or adjust the plan.
Use advice tailored to your situation. Caring for enamel should support your wellbeing and nutrition, never add pressure or guilt.
After vomiting or reflux, rinsing with plain water can help clear acid from the mouth. Ask us how long to wait before brushing, and whether a fluoride rinse would help in your case.
A soft brush, light pressure and a fluoride toothpaste that suits your teeth are the basics; leave abrasive products aside. A specialised toothpaste may help protect enamel, but it does not reduce how often acid reaches the teeth.
Seek help from your doctor or another health professional for recurring vomiting, severe pregnancy sickness or ongoing reflux. Do not adjust medication yourself. Mention a dry mouth too, as it reduces natural protection.
Patient information: UK oral health guidance — managing and monitoring tooth wear
Erosion linked to vomiting or illness raises personal questions. We answer them privately and respectfully, with your teeth and health in mind.
Book an appointment at our Bronte Street practice for worn, sensitive or changing teeth. Let us know when booking if you would like extra time or a private conversation. You will hear plainly what the examination shows and how your teeth can be protected and, where appropriate, restored.
If you are in significant pain or have swelling, please call. Online requests are for non-urgent appointments.
