Is Enamel Erosion Reversible?

July 19, 2022

Your teeth are covered in a hard substance called enamel. Enamel is what gives your teeth their shiny appearance. However, enamel’s benefits are more than cosmetic—they help protect your teeth from bacteria, acids, and pigments that can damage teeth and cause stains.

Although tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it can become damaged over time. Enamel erosion is when tooth enamel wears away; this can happen for a variety of reasons. Research has shown that even mild erosion can cause dental problems, especially later in life [1].

Can enamel erosion be reversed once it happens?

No, But It Can Be Prevented

Unfortunately, once your tooth enamel is gone, it can’t be replaced. Tooth enamel stops forming early in life and once this process is complete, it doesn’t start again, so the body can’t regenerate new enamel.

However, although tooth enamel can’t be regrown, tooth enamel loss can be prevented. Drinking enough water, using fluoride toothpaste, eating a healthy diet, and taking care of your teeth can help prevent tooth enamel loss, as can keeping your regular appointments with your dentist [2].

Symptoms of Enamel Erosion

What does enamel erosion look like? Since tooth enamel is shiny, one of the signs of enamel erosion is teeth that appear more dull or discolored rather than white and translucent. You may also experience tooth sensitivity, since tooth enamel protects your teeth from hot and cold temperatures.

Tooth decay also means your tooth enamel in the affected area has been compromised, so if you’re having symptoms of tooth decay or you have a cavity at your next dental check-up, you may have enamel erosion.

Frequent vomiting, acid reflux, consuming lots of sugar, and poor oral hygiene can all damage tooth enamel to the point that it wears away, especially if these habits continue over time [3].

You Can Reduce the Effects of Enamel Erosion

While you won’t be able to reverse enamel erosion, there are things you can do to help minimize the effects of the erosion and protect your teeth. Fluoride treatments from your dentist can help strengthen your tooth enamel and protect against cavities, especially if your enamel erosion is severe [4].

It’s essential to work with your dentist to identify the potential causes of enamel erosion so you can stop it from continuing. Your dentist can help identify underlying causes of enamel erosion, such as acid reflux or poor oral hygiene, so you can correct the problem and protect your teeth.

Are You Seeing Signs of Enamel Erosion?

If you’re seeing signs of enamel erosion, know that you can still protect your teeth and treat your symptoms even if the damaged can’t be reversed. Your dentist can help identify signs of enamel erosion and work with you to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.