The team at Chapel Street Dental highly values preventive care, which is why we want to educate our patients about the dangers of acid reflux. This disease can have a devastating effect on the body, teeth included, but we can help fix the damage.
Stomach acid is so strong that the stomach secretes special mucus to protect itself. When that acid escapes upward into the esophagus, it burns as it goes. This is what causes the sensation called heartburn. When the acid reaches the mouth, it erodes the enamel covering the teeth, leaving them more sensitive. If a patient experiences acid reflux twice a week or more, they are said to have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These people’s teeth are eroded so much they appear to become glazed before developing tiny pits.
Patients can prevent acid reflux by reducing their intake of citric acid, onions, garlic, fried meat, and alcohol. They would also do well not to eat before lying down. We can also provide fluoride treatments that will better protect their enamel and repair damage the teeth have already incurred.
Chapel Street Dental is located at 806 Chapel St, New Haven, Connecticut, 06510. To schedule an appointment, call 203-772-1000 or visit New Haven Dental and fill out a contact form.
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