If you feel pain or sensitivity when eating or drinking hot or cold foods and drinks, then you may have enamel erosion. When your dental enamel weakens or becomes thin, tooth sensitivity and a heightened risk for a pulp infection may develop. Here are some things that can cause tooth sensitivity from acid erosion and what you can do about them.

Vitamin C Supplements

While consuming a diet rich in vitamin C may help boost immune function and enhance the condition of your skin, taking vitamin C supplements may lead to acid erosion. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is highly acidic, as its name implies.

Over time, long-term use or large doses of vitamin C can damage your tooth enamel. Similarly, citrus juices can also have the same effect on your dental enamel. If your teeth become sensitive, see your family dentist.

If your oral examination reveals evidence of acid erosion, your dentist may recommend that your lower the dosage of your supplement. In addition, supplemental vitamin C may also cause acid reflux, which may be another risk factor in the development of dental erosion and tooth sensitivity. If you have a vitamin C deficiency, consider eating broccoli, spinach, and kale to fulfill your recommended daily allowances for vitamin C, because these foods are less likely to cause enamel erosion. 

Coffee

Drinking coffee is another way acid erosion and tooth sensitivity can develop. When you drink too much coffee, it can lead to the accumulation of oral bacteria, which may be a risk factor for erosion. This is because oral bacteria increases the amount of acids inside your mouth.

If you are unable to stop drinking coffee, try rinsing your mouth out after consuming coffee so that it is less likely to make contact with your teeth for extended periods of time. Also, consider drinking iced coffee as opposed to hot coffee because you can drink iced coffee through a straw. Drinking coffee though a straw will help ensure that the beverage does not make contact with your dental enamel. Also, adding cream and sugar may further raise your risk for acid erosion, so if you can tolerate it, drink your coffee black. 

If you develop sensitivity or pain in your teeth, or if your teeth have changed color or appear translucent, see your family dentist. If he or she determines that you have acid erosion, a special toothpaste or other treatment may be recommend to help keep your enamel strong. 

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