WHO IS AT RISK FOR TOOTH EROSION?

Anyone who eats (and that’s all of us) can be affected by acid erosion. But certain people are at higher risk than others — even those who enjoy an active lifestyle and healthy diet! Active people who consume sports drinks --Studies have shown the enamel damage caused by sports drinks are 3 to 11 times greater than cola beverages. Children with baby teeth --The enamel of baby teeth is softer and more vulnerable to acid erosion. People who have dry mouth (xerostomia) due to the side effect of some medications --Because saliva plays an important part in neutralizing acids in the mouth, people with dry mouth are more susceptible to tooth erosion. People who suffer from chronic acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) --One study found that 11 out of 20 patients with GERD had tooth erosion. People who eat a healthy diet --Many healthy foods that are good for you contain acid. People who drink a lot of carbonated beverages --Many colas and other soft drinks (even sugar-free ...  more