09 Jan Acid Reflux: Bad For Your Teeth Too?
Do you ever experience a burning sensation in your chest and throat after eating? As many as three out of 10 people report occasionally experiencing this symptom of heartburn. Heartburn is also a primary symptom of acid reflux disease, otherwise known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD. In a recent study, scientists uncovered a link between GERD and oral health. The study followed patients with and without GERD for six months and found that half of the patients with GERD also suffered severe tooth wear and erosion.
How Acid Reflux Affects the Teeth
When acids from the stomach enter the mouth, they can wear down tooth enamel more rapidly. Patients with tooth damage from acid reflux will have thin, cratered, and chipped teeth. There is no way to replace tooth enamel once it is worn down and this leaves the tooth exposed to decay.
What Can Patients With Acid Reflux Do?
If you suffer from heartburn or GERD, you can protect your oral health with the following tips:
Seek Medical Treatment: Consult with your primary physician about your symptoms. There are many diagnostic tools and medications a physician can use to identify and alleviate your symptoms.
Avoid Triggers: While trigger foods and beverages may differ from person to person, there are a few common heartburn triggers, including alcohol, red wine, garlic, raw onions, spicy food, citrus, coffee, peppermint, and tomatoes. Heartburn or GERD patients should also avoid eating large meals in one sitting and eating right before bedtime or lying down.
Adapt Your Brushing Routine: If you do experience a heartburn or reflux episode, rinse your mouth out with water afterward. Then wait at least 60 minutes before brushing your teeth following an episode. Inform your dentist of your condition so he or she can check for related signs of tooth wear and erosion.
To schedule an appointment for a dental exam or cosmetic consultation, call the Tucson offices of Dr. John Carson at (520) 514-7203. Dr. Carson offers treatments for patients with severe tooth wear and decay.