Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a common cause of tooth erosion. At ProSmiles Dental, Dr. Lankupalli provides patients with several treatment options to reduce and repair the damage, but we believe prevention is the best thing to ensure patients’ overall health.

There is a sphincter which separates the stomach from the esophagus. When a patient’s swallowing causes that sphincter to open, acid can escape into the esophagus and the mouth. This is especially likely to occur if the patient eats a large amount of chocolate and fried or acidic food, such as tomatoes and onions, drinks alcohol and caffeine, and eats large meals before bed. When acid reflux occurs twice or more in a week, the patient is said to have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and their teeth could be in danger.

Tooth enamel erosion from acid reflux is most common on the inward sides of the upper teeth and on the grinding surfaces of the molars. It makes teeth sensitive and less effective at grinding. Acid also causes teeth be become discolored as their outer white layer thins and their inner yellow-grey shines through. The damage can be repaired through restorations such as partial crowns, but patients should change their diets and lifestyles to avoid further harm.

Dr. Archana Lankupalli operates ProSmiles Dental at 9400 Clifford Street, Suite 110, Fort Worth, Texas, 76108. To schedule an appointment, call 817-369-8000 or visit WhiteSettlementDentistTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.