Acid Reflux Damage and Cosmetic Dentistry

Posted on 11 June 2020

Acid reflux disease, also called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD for short, can be more than just an irritating problem as it can also cause untold damage to the teeth. 

GERD is a condition in which strong and corrosive acids from the stomach are pushed upwards in the esophagus into the mouth -- where they can quickly erode and damage tooth enamel. Once tooth enamel has been eroded, it is very difficult for a dentist to repair the damage without resorting to some form of cosmetic dentistry. Fortunately, there are a number of methods available that can restore damaged teeth to their former glory.

Tooth Bonding (dental bonding) involves using a special resin, which matches the existing tooth colour, to fill and repair any cracks, chips or holes in the tooth's surface.

Dental Crowns may be necessary if the damage is severe. The crowns are coloured and shaped to match the existing teeth and are almost indistinguishable from the originals they replace.

Porcelain Veneers are thin ceramic layers that are laid over the teeth to protect them as the enamel used to.

While these methods are all successful in restoring damaged tooth enamel you must have your acid reflux under control before any of them can be used by the dentist. Read more on this topic at https://yourdentalhealthresource.com/has-gerd-acid-reflux-eroded-your-smile-cosmetic-dentistry-can-help/.