Does Acid Reflux Affect Your Teeth? Lake Worth Dentistry’s Guide to Protect Enamel

Acid reflux doesn’t stop with heartburn. Stomach acid can rise all the way to your mouth and quietly dissolve enamel—the mineral casing that covers each tooth. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affects about 20% of adults in the United States, which can help account for why dentists see more dental erosion due to reflux.

How Reflux Damages Enamel

Stomach acid is highly acidic—typically pH 1–2, and significantly stronger than anything you’d consume or snack on. Chronic exposure causes wear on enamel and promotes erosive tooth wear on biting surfaces and inner teeth in the upper jaw. Studies report that patients with GERD have considerably greater incidences of dental erosion compared to patients who don’t have reflux. Continue reading to learn what really works.

Early Clues You Might Notice

• Teeth look yellower as enamel gets thinner on the top.
• Cold or sweet foods taste more intense than before.
• Fillings become visible since the enamel around them is reduced by wear.

If you’re searching for a dentist in Greenacres or weighing options like “best dentist in Greenacres,” remember this: your needs are unique, and erosion demands a tailored approach. See below to learn how to help yourself right now.

Daily Habits That Actually Help

Neutralize First, Then Brush

Following a reflux attack, water rinse (or a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in water in a cup) to elevate pH. Brushing can be delayed; most dentists recommend waiting about an hour so softened enamel will re-harden before brushing. Brush with a soft brush and fluoride toothpaste in the morning and evening.

Focus on Saliva Production

Chew sugar-free gum (xylitol is a bonus) for 10–20 minutes after meals to stimulate saliva, which buffers acids and helps remineralize. Look for the ADA Seal on gum and oral products.

Make Small Nutrition Tweaks

Skipping acidic foods and drinks (citrus, soda, energy drinks) and water at mealtime decreases acid load on teeth. Nighttime reflux is especially erosive; talk with your healthcare provider about reflux timing, diet, and medications if symptoms persist.

Protective Dental Treatments

Fluoride & Remineralizing Care

In-office fluoride varnish, fluoride-rich toothpaste, and remineralizing products fortify enamel when under acid attack. Your dentist may also place protective sealants on exposed surfaces.

Guarding Worn Edges

When reflux is accompanied by clenching or grinding, a night guard designed by your dentist reduces wear on already-softened enamel and facilitates the preservation of remaining structure. (Soft enamel and grinding accelerate loss.)

Restoring Form and Function

For severe erosion, conservative bonding or ceramic restorations restore length and cover dentin. Restorations are paired with a medical care plan to control reflux; both ends are crucial to break the cycle. What evidence shows is that treatment of GERD decreases ongoing erosion risk.

What To Do Next

• Track symptoms (especially at night) and report them at your dental visit.
• Inquire about a reflux-safe home daily oral care regimen: fluoride toothpaste, soft brushing, and saliva aid.
• Schedule routine exams so that early-onset erosion is identified before chipping or sensitivity.

Acid reflux teeth damage is preventable. Small, steady changes, paired with dentist-guided tips, can keep your enamel safe and your smile comfortable. If your teeth feel more sensitive, look thinner, or you’re struggling with frequent episodes of acid reflux, Lake Worth Dentistry is ready to help with precise, enamel-saving dental care.