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The Effects of Acid Erosion

You may not be able to see the effects of acid erosion yourself, but your dentist can check for early signs when they’re checking for tooth decay or gum disease.

Even if your teeth look healthy today, over time acids in everyday foods and drinks can still put enamel at risk. Here are 5 signs that you may be affected by acid erosion:

1. Rounded edges

The edges of your teeth are the most exposed to acid erosion, so will tend to be worn away first.

2. Dull or discoloured

As the enamel wears away, your teeth may lose their shine, making them appear dull.

3. Yellowing

If a significant amount of enamel is worn away from the tooth, the slightly yellow dentin layer underneath can become more visible.

Healthy, white teeth should start with strong enamel

Strong enamel without acid wear

Strong enamel without acid erosion

Weakened translucent enamel with acid wear

Weakened translucent enamel with acid erosion

4. Translucent or see-through

As more enamel wears away, teeth can become visibly thinner. As the enamel thins, the edges of your teeth can appear translucent.

5. Sensitivity

As the protective enamel wears away, the underlying dentin layer can become exposed. This can be one of the causes of sensitivity.

Fortunately, it’s easy to take action to reduce these risks. Find out more on how to protect against acid erosion.

Two bowls filled with acidic fruits: strawberries, grapes, watermelon

The Causes of Acid Erosion

Understanding the acidity of your diet can help protect your teeth from the effects of acid erosion.

Read about the causes of acid erosion

Tooth with a cavity on a green background

Cavities vs. Acid Erosion

Explore the differences between cavities and acid erosion and how they can affect your teeth.

Learn about the difference between cavities and acid erosion

Woman pouring milk for herself

How to Prevent Acid Erosion

Learn about the steps you can take to prevent acid erosion and protect your teeth.

Learn how to prevent acid erosion

Acidic Fruits Callout Mobile

The Causes of Acid Erosion

Understanding the acidity of your diet can help protect your teeth from the effects of acid erosion.

Read about the causes of acid erosion

Tooth with a cavity on a green background

Cavities vs. Acid Erosion

Explore the differences between cavities and acid erosion and how they can affect your teeth.

Learn about the difference between cavities and acid erosion

Woman pouring milk for herself

How to Prevent Acid Erosion

Learn about the steps you can take to prevent acid erosion and protect your teeth.

Learn how to prevent acid erosion