Enamel Erosion Treatment & Management

Enamel erosion treatment and management

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

Helping patients treat and prevent enamel wear

Early diagnosis of enamel wear is important and, if found, preventive measures should be taken. 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 specialist toothpaste optimised for high fluoride uptake

Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste²

Ensure the toothpaste has low abrasivity¹

Recommend a specialised toothpaste 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

The following actions are based on the latest UK Department of Health oral healthcare guidelines and may help your patients prevent enamel wear:²

Investigate patients’ general health, diet and tooth brushing behaviours
Identify possible sources of acid and wear
Tailor advice to the needs of each individual patient to manage their tooth wear. Ensure patients use a toothpaste containing fluoride
Monitor and record enamel wear using the BEWE. Learn more about the BEWE here
Consult/refer to the wider medical team for advice on managing intrinsic sources of acid, such as reflux or eating disorders, and medications