Prevention
Early intervention is key. Increased vigilance during routine examinations
together with lifestyle advice can slow the progression of symptoms.
Due to the range of potential causes, options for tackling tooth wear should
ideally be tailored to an individual's circumstances. Ask the patient whether
they swill carbonated drinks around their mouth or retain food or drinks in
their mouth for extended periods. Enquire after tooth brushing habits, and
possible gastric conditions involving heartburn (oesophageal reflux).
Once clinical examination has identified the key factors, and a differential
diagnosis of acid erosion has been made, recommendations may include:
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Reduce or eliminate intake of carbonated drinks
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Cease retaining acidic foods and drinks inside the mouth
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Chew gum or suck a sugar-free lozenge to encourage saliva production and protect enamel, or eat a piece of cheese after an acidic
meal
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Leave brushing of teeth for at least one hour after consuming acidic food or
drink
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Brush with a soft toothbrush, using a low-abrasion, low-acidity, high-fluoride
dentifrice
Tooth wear is closely associated with lifestyle choices, and we at
GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare believe that education is vital to
maintaining good oral health.
AcidErosion.co.uk is a contribution to that process, and we hope that its
message will be taken up widely by health care professionals.