JEDDAH, 16 May 2007 — An oral care expert has revealed how teeth are under threat from a dental condition that is caused by the increased acidity of today’s “modern” diet.
“Acid erosion is a condition that affects all ages and is a key issue for 21st century dental care,” Dr. David C. Alexander, worldwide director, dental affairs at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), told a medical conference attended by a large number of dentists and dental professionals at Le Jeddah Meridien Hotel in Jeddah over the weekend.
“Acid erosion could be as much of a threat to teeth in this century as cavities were in the 20th century,” he added.
Acid erosion occurs when acidic food or drinks come into contact with teeth and the tooth enamel surface temporarily softens. Over time, this acidic softening can cause significant wear, resulting in reduced thickness of enamel that can lead teeth to change texture, shape and appearance, and become sensitive.
“Today’s modern diet may be considered healthy, with low sugar options, but a wide range of foods associated with the modern diet are acidic. Certain soft drinks and even foods such as fruits are often highly acidic. Frequent consumption of acidic food and drink can be damaging to the teeth,” Dr. Alexander said.
The early signs of acid erosion can include teeth pain when consuming hot or cold food and drinks, a condition called dental sensitivity. Visibly the teeth will have a rounded look on the surface of the tooth — teeth with a shiny, polished look and slight yellow appearance as the acids erode the tooth enamel and the underlying dentine shows through. The later stages can include yellow spots on the teeth — transparency, small cracks on the edges of the teeth, severe sensitivity and small dents on the tooth surface.
“The effects of acid erosion cannot be reversed and if left to become serious will require dental treatment to restore the shape and function of the affected teeth and to protect them. In very extreme cases, the damage caused may require extraction of the affected tooth,” he said and recommended that an acid erosion check-up should be sought as part of general oral care.
Alexander said that GSK had been actively running an awareness campaign across the Middle East about acid erosion and its potential damage to teeth. “The aim is to ensure that steps are taken to identify the early signs and protect teeth as our lifestyles evolve,” he said.
