Acid Reflux and Your Teeth: How a Quality Dentist Can Help
Did you know that your digestive health can affect your teeth and ultimately your smile?
After a very spicy meal, you may have experienced a painful burning sensation in your chest and throat. This is commonly known as heartburn. It is caused by stomach acid traveling up toward your throat. It has no significant effects if it occurs once in a while.
However, if it occurs repeatedly, it may be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD, or acid reflux, is a serious condition that can affect the appearance of your teeth. It also increases your risk of getting cavities.
How Does Digestive Health Affect My Teeth?
Your stomach naturally produces acids that help in the digestion of food. After a heavy meal, it is common for this acid to travel up through your throat and into your mouth. Your saliva contains basic elements that balance the stomach acids. Hence, your mouth is restored to normal.
However, if you suffer from GERD, gastric acid is always reaching your mouth. This occurs not just in special cases such as after a hefty meal. The damage is greatest when you are asleep as your mouth is producing less saliva.
A dry mouth is also a big concern that can increase your risk of getting cavities. A dry mouth can be caused by several factors such as the use of certain acid reflux medications. Saliva is a great asset in neutralizing the gastric acid caused by GERD. It also helps to remove certain bacteria that destroy your tooth enamel.
The acids from acid reflux erode the enamel of your teeth. Sadly, tooth erosion is irreversible. You may experience the following symptoms of tooth erosion:
- Pain when taking hot, or cold food and drinks
- Discoloration of your teeth
- Development of cavities
- Tooth loss, in extreme cases
How a Quality Dentist from Beverly Hills Dentistry can Help.
If teeth erosion occurs, you may need a smile makeover. No one can do a better smile makeover than Beverly Hills Dentistry. Beverly Hills Dentistry was founded in 1983. We have been the preferred destination for those seeking beautiful smile transformations for years on end.
We are located in Beverly Hills, California. We serve patients around surrounding areas in Los Angeles, including Northridge, North Ranch, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, and more. Our team consists of seasoned professional dentists and we can turn your smile around.
The teeth erosion from acid reflux may be permanent, but we can transform your smile with a beautiful makeover. Give us a call at (310) 625- 8383 or book your appointment today!