Enamel wear: Management

Managing enamel wear

Early diagnosis of enamel wear is important and, if found, preventive measures should be taken.

Helping patients prevent enamel wear

Patients showing the early signs of enamel wear can follow three simple steps to help protect their enamel.^1,2

1. Acid exposure
Minimise exposure to acids

Avoid frequent intake of acidic foods or drinks^1,2

Avoid holding acidic drinks in the mouth¹

Rinse mouth with water after acidic foods and drinks¹
2. Appropriate brushing
Brush teeth with appropriate technique and timing

Avoid brushing immediately after consuming acidic food and drink¹

Brush gently but thoroughly with a soft-bristled toothbrush¹
3. Specialised toothpaste
Use a specialised toothpaste optimised for high fluoride uptake

Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste²

Ensure the toothpaste has low abrasivity¹

Recommend a specialised toothpaste demonstrated to protect enamel against attack by dietary acids

Enamel wear prevention in practice

The most important preventive action for patients with enamel wear is to ensure that the potential sources of wear are identified and removed, and lifestyle is modified.²

Assess and record enamel wear, and help patients manage it with the necessary expert help.²