Dental erosion 4 articles

Dental erosion is irreversible loss of tooth surface caused predominantly by chemical action from acids not produced by oral bacteria. Dietary acids, gastric reflux and other intrinsic or extrinsic sources can soften enamel and dentin, producing smooth surface loss, cupping or increased sensitivity as wear progresses. Assessment considers pattern, history and other wear mechanisms such as attrition or abrasion. Erosion therefore describes an acid-mediated form of tooth wear rather than dental caries or mechanical wear alone.