Understanding Acid Reflux

At Bridge Smiles Dental Group, we want our patients to understand how they can prevent toothaches and oral pathologies before they become a problem. Maintaining oral hygiene is essential throughout life, but as people age, acid reflux has the potential to become as much of a concern as plaque.

The stomach is protected from the corrosive property of stomach acid by a thick layer of mucus, but the esophagus and mouth have no such protection. When acid escapes from the stomach and up the esophagus, the painful sensation it causes is commonly called heartburn. While tooth enamel is more resistant to acid than soft tissue, it, too, can be broken down by repeated exposure. People with gastroesophageal reflux disease commonly suffer erosion on the enamel on the inward facing surfaces of their top teeth and experience pain, discoloration, and loss of function as a result.

Damage to enamel can be repaired through means such as white fillings, bonding, and partial or whole crowns. Artificial replacements are more resistant to acid than natural teeth. However, because acid reflux is painful and contributes to esophageal cancer, patients should try to reduce it by avoiding acidic foods and those that are high in fat, avoiding eating before bed, and by maintaining good posture.

Drs. Meghadri and Grewal run Bridge Smiles Dental Group at 820 US Hwy 202 North Neshanic Station, NJ, and 15 North Bridge ST. Somerville, NJ. To schedule an appointment, visit BridgeSmilesDental.com.