Were you aware of the harm acid reflux does to teeth? At Healthy Smiles Family Dental in Salem, we treat a variety of dental problems, but we want patients suffering from acidic corrosion to understand how to take preventive measures.
Acid reflux is commonly called “heartburn,” but that’s not an accurate description of what’s happening. When people swallow, a sphincter between the stomach and esophagus is supposed to open and shut, but when it gets stuck open, acid escapes. A person who suffers from acid reflux more than twice a week is said to have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). People with GERD have increased tooth sensitivity due to the acid wearing away on the enamel that protects teeth’s nerves. The upper back teeth are the first to be affected. Acid reflux causes them to take on a distinctive glazed appearance before pits begin to develop in the enamel.
GERD can often be traced back to smoking or dietary factors. People can reduce their risk of getting it by avoiding large meals before bed and by cutting back on fried food, citric acid, and foods such as onions and garlic.
Dr. Na Xu operates Healthy Smiles Family Dental at 2601 25th St SE #400, Salem, Oregon, 97302. Visit My Family Dentist Salem or call 503-385-1185.
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