Dental erosion is the loss of tooth enamel caused by acid attack from foods and drinks that are high in sugar. Enamel is the hard, protective coating of the tooth, which protects the sensitive dentine underneath. When the enamel is worn away, the dentine underneath is exposed, which may lead to pain and sensitivity.
Every time you eat or drink anything acidic, the enamel on your teeth becomes softer for a short while, and loses some of its mineral content. Your saliva will slowly cancel out this acidity in your mouth and get it back to its natural balance. However, if this acid attack happens too often, your mouth does not have a chance to repair itself and tiny particles of enamel can be brushed away. Over time, you start to lose the surface of your teeth.
This infographic, by Dental Max, features information on some of the most acid foods and beverages out there and the damage they can inflict upon your teeth as a result of erosion, along with some tips on how to lessen the effects of it.
