Acid reflux is often thought of as a digestive issue, but its effects don’t stop at the stomach. When stomach acid repeatedly travels upward into the mouth, it can cause significant damage to your teeth over time. Many patients are surprised to learn that ongoing enamel erosion, sensitivity, and even tooth fractures may be linked to untreated or poorly controlled acid reflux.
At California Dental Group, we frequently see dental changes that point to reflux long before patients realize their teeth are being affected.
How Acid Reflux Damages Teeth
Stomach acid is extremely strong—stronger than anything your teeth are designed to handle. When acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs, acid can reach the mouth, especially during sleep. Even small, repeated exposures can soften enamel and make it more vulnerable to wear.
Unlike cavities caused by bacteria, acid erosion dissolves enamel directly. Once enamel is lost, it does not regenerate, making early detection critical.
Common Dental Signs of Acid Reflux
Dental erosion from reflux often develops gradually and may not cause pain right away. Some of the most common signs include:
- Increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Thinning or translucent-looking teeth
- Rounded or worn edges on teeth
- Yellowing teeth as dentin becomes exposed
- Frequent cavities despite good oral hygiene
- A smooth, glossy appearance on tooth surfaces
These changes often affect the back teeth first, where acid tends to pool.
Why Nighttime Reflux Is Especially Harmful
Reflux that occurs at night can be particularly damaging. While you sleep, saliva production decreases, reducing your mouth’s natural ability to neutralize acid. This allows acid to sit on teeth longer, increasing enamel erosion.
Patients with nighttime reflux may wake up with a sour taste, dry mouth, or increased tooth sensitivity in the morning—signs that acid exposure is occurring while they sleep.
What Not to Do After Acid Exposure
One of the most common mistakes patients make is brushing immediately after reflux or heartburn episodes. Acid temporarily softens enamel, and brushing too soon can accelerate enamel loss.
Instead:
- Rinse your mouth with water to dilute acid
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva
- Wait at least 30 minutes before brushing
These steps give enamel time to reharden before mechanical cleaning.
How to Protect Your Teeth from Acid Erosion
While managing reflux medically is essential, dental protection plays a major role in preserving your teeth. Helpful strategies include:
- Using a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel
- Applying prescription-strength fluoride when recommended
- Drinking water frequently to neutralize acid
- Avoiding acidic foods and beverages before bedtime
- Sleeping with your head elevated if reflux occurs at night
At California Dental Group, we may also recommend protective treatments or restorations if enamel loss is already present.
The Importance of Addressing the Underlying Cause
Dental care alone cannot stop acid erosion if reflux continues unchecked. If enamel wear suggests ongoing acid exposure, we may recommend that you speak with your physician about managing GERD through dietary changes, medications, or lifestyle adjustments.
Treating reflux at its source protects not only your digestive health but also your teeth.
When Dental Treatment May Be Needed
Once enamel loss progresses, restorative treatment may be necessary to protect teeth from further damage. Depending on severity, options may include bonding, crowns, or protective coatings to restore strength and reduce sensitivity.
Routine dental exams allow us to track changes over time and intervene before damage becomes extensive.
Protect Your Smile from Acid Damage
If you have frequent heartburn, acid reflux, or unexplained tooth sensitivity, your teeth may be telling you something important. Early dental evaluation can prevent long-term damage and preserve your smile.
Call 800-407-0161 to schedule an exam at California Dental Group. We’ll assess your enamel, identify signs of acid erosion, and help you protect your teeth for the long term.
