Erosion

Tooth erosion is the gradual wearing away of enamel, the hard outer layer of a tooth, by acids. Those acids can come from acidic foods and drinks, or from stomach acid that reaches the mouth. Unlike a single chip or crack, erosion happens slowly over time, and it can make teeth look thinner, more yellow as the layer beneath shows through, or more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods.

What Erosion involves

A dentist will look for patterns of wear, check which teeth are affected, and ask about diet and other factors that may contribute. Care focuses on protecting the remaining enamel, reducing further acid exposure, and repairing teeth that have become sensitive or damaged. Erosion is managed over time, rather than fixed by a single emergency visit.

Signs of Erosion

• Teeth that look thinner, transparent at the edges, or more yellow
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Small dents or a shiny, smooth appearance on tooth surfaces
• Teeth that chip more easily than before

What to do right away for Erosion

• Rinse with clean water after acidic foods or drinks, and wait before brushing
• Avoid frequent sipping of acidic drinks through the day
• Use a soft toothbrush and gentle pressure
• Call for help if sensitivity is severe, a tooth breaks, or pain develops

How a dentist may help with Erosion

• Examine the pattern of wear and check sensitivity
• Identify factors that may be contributing to acid exposure
• Protect the teeth with fluoride or another suitable treatment
• Repair damaged teeth and review diet and cleaning habits

When to seek urgent care for Erosion

Seek urgent care if a tooth breaks, pain is severe, or swelling develops.

General information on this page is not medical advice. A dentist who examines you can give advice for your situation.

Related emergency dental help

• Tooth Abrasion
• Tooth Stains
• Root Exposure

Emergency Dental Services — back to the full list. Contact Emergency Dentist for general enquiries, or call for urgent help.

Frequently asked questions about Erosion

What causes tooth erosion?

Acids from food and drink, or stomach acid reaching the mouth, can wear enamel over time. Frequent acid exposure increases the risk.

Is erosion the same as decay?

No. Decay is caused by bacteria producing acid in plaque. Erosion is direct acid wear, though both can damage enamel.

Can eroded enamel grow back?

Enamel does not regrow. Care focuses on protecting what remains and preventing further wear.