Heartburn, a sour taste at night or frequent reflux can quietly affect enamel. If you are coming from Burlington, we look at erosion with your health in mind and help coordinate dental and medical care.
It can feel odd to be asked about your stomach at a dental appointment. The reason is simple: acid that rises from the stomach can reach the teeth, sometimes without obvious heartburn. Over months and years, that exposure may contribute to erosion, the loss of tooth structure to acids that do not come from bacteria. It is distinct from decay, though both can appear together.
Reflux is only one possibility. Acidic drinks, certain foods, repeated vomiting and a dry mouth can all play a role, and grinding or forceful brushing can leave marks that look similar. Sometimes the location of the wear offers a hint, but no single sign proves where the acid came from, so we put your history and examination side by side.
When someone from Burlington comes to our Bronte Street practice with worn or sensitive teeth, we start by listening. We ask about symptoms such as a sour taste, night-time coughing or indigestion, as well as diet and medicines, and we explain why each question matters. Personal details can be discussed privately, and medical follow-up is suggested where it may help.
Mention roughly when you noticed a change, and if it has been getting more obvious. Earlier records or photographs can add perspective, although an examination is still needed to interpret them properly.
Back teeth may show smooth, shallow hollows, and the inner or chewing surfaces can look different from before. The dentist studies where the wear is concentrated and compares it with other findings. What a surface looks like cannot reveal on its own how quickly it changed.
Cold, sweet or sour things may cause discomfort for a range of reasons. Tell us what triggers it, how long it lasts and which teeth react. Sensitivity is not a reliable measure of erosion, and a single very painful tooth may need investigation for something else.
A sour or bitter taste, regurgitation, a hoarse voice in the morning or repeated vomiting may be relevant. Share whatever you feel able to. We can look at dental protection and talk about whether your doctor should assess an acid exposure that dental treatment cannot resolve.
Please do not stop or change reflux medicine, or any other prescription, without your doctor’s advice. A medication list and any relevant health information will help dental recommendations fit with the care you already receive.
No dental material can reverse an acid exposure that is still happening. Lost enamel will not regenerate, and a restoration placed over active erosion may face the same challenge as the tooth around it. So the plan typically begins with identifying and, where possible, reducing the source, while sensitivity is managed in the meantime.
Many eroded areas can be protected and monitored rather than restored straight away. Depth, comfort, function, appearance and evidence of progression shape the decision. It is reasonable to ask what will be checked at each review and what would prompt a different recommendation. That clarity makes follow-up purposeful.
Patient information: American Dental Association — dental erosion
Understanding which surfaces are affected helps relate the wear to your health and habits. We aim to describe likely contributors honestly, including when more than one factor seems to be involved.
If reflux or another health issue appears relevant, we can suggest speaking with your doctor and adapt dental advice to complement medical treatment rather than working in isolation.
Should a repair be recommended, ask whether it will protect an exposed surface, reduce sensitivity, rebuild form or support chewing. Each restoration should solve a specific problem, not simply even out appearance.
You do not have to arrive knowing what caused the wear. If a symptom diary or a sample day of meals is requested, a straightforward account is ideal. Openness counts for more than detail.
We ask about dental symptoms, digestive symptoms, health conditions and medicines. Reflux, vomiting, dry mouth and diet may all be covered. If you would rather discuss part of this privately, simply let us know.
The dentist assesses your teeth, existing restorations and bite. Clinical notes, photographs or other suitable records establish a reference point. Further investigations are only considered when they would clarify something specific.
Together we look at which exposures can be reduced, how sensitivity will be handled and whether a tooth needs rebuilding. Where your doctor is involved, dental advice can be coordinated with theirs. Ask about stages and estimated costs before proceeding with restorative care.
At follow-up we consider symptoms, how the plan has worked in practice and any change in the teeth. The interval depends on findings. If wear appears to continue or concerns remain, we may investigate further or adjust the plan.
Follow advice shaped around your own sources of acid. Enamel protection should support your general wellbeing and a balanced diet rather than add unnecessary restrictions.
If a particular drink seems to contribute, discuss having it less often and with meals. Try not to hold acidic liquids in the mouth before swallowing. Water is a practical option between meals.
Use a fluoride toothpaste suited to you and avoid abrasive products or heavy pressure. Ask about the best technique and timing for brushing if you experience reflux. Specialised toothpastes may help, but they cannot replace managing the acid source.
See your doctor about ongoing heartburn, reflux or vomiting, and mention persistent dry mouth. Do not adjust medication yourself. After vomiting, rinsing with water may help clear the mouth; ask us for advice if episodes are frequent.
Patient information: UK oral health guidance — managing and monitoring tooth wear
Erosion linked to health conditions raises questions that go beyond toothpaste. We answer them in the context of your examination and, where relevant, your medical care.
Book a visit to our Bronte Street clinic for sensitivity, worn surfaces or teeth that look different. Bring your medication list and any notes about reflux or other symptoms. We will explain our findings and suggest the steps that will best protect and, if needed, restore your teeth.
Please call if you have significant pain or swelling. Online forms are for non-urgent appointment requests.
