Worn or eroded teeth and tooth sensitivity

Overview

Acidic drinks, reflux, and vomiting dissolve enamel, while grinding and hard brushing wear it down.

Thinner enamel exposes the inner layer, causing sensitivity to hot, cold, and sweets.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Sensitive or worn teeth

Less common

• Yellowing
• Chipped edges

Look up a symptom: Toothache or tooth sensitive to hot, cold, or sweets

When to get medical care

Causes

Acid, grinding.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Reflux

Possible complications

• Tooth decay (cavity): Worn enamel decays faster

Diagnosis

A dentist examines.

Treatment

Protect enamel.

Self-care

• Use sensitivity toothpaste
• Use a soft brush
• Limit acidic drinks

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Use a straw for acidic drinks
• Wait 30 minutes after acidic food to brush

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your dentist.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can go back to school or work the same day or the next day.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• People with reflux or eating problems: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Manageable.

Sensitivity toothpaste helps within weeks.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• Do I need a night guard?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Worn or eroded teeth and tooth sensitivity