Restorative & Tooth Problems
Tooth erosion
Tooth surface dissolved by acid from food, drinks or the stomach.
Cause
Dietary or stomach acid
Signs
Glossy, yellower, sensitive
Key step
Reduce acid contact
Tip
Wait before brushing
Overview
Tooth erosion is the loss of enamel caused by acid. The acid can come from fizzy drinks, fruit juice, wine and citrus, or from the stomach in people with reflux.
Eroded teeth may look glossy or yellower as enamel thins, and can become sensitive. Reducing acid contact helps protect what remains.
What to know
- Caused by acid from diet or stomach reflux
- Enamel thins, so teeth may look more yellow
- Teeth can become sensitive to cold and sweet
- Cutting acidic drinks slows the damage
- Do not brush straight after acidic food or vomiting
Common questions
Which drinks cause erosion?
Soft drinks, sports drinks, fruit juice, wine and citrus drinks are common culprits.
Why wait to brush after acid?
Acid softens enamel for a while. Brushing straight away can wear it away faster. Wait about an hour.
Can erosion be linked to reflux?
Yes. Stomach acid from reflux or frequent vomiting can erode teeth, often on the inner surfaces.
Can eroded teeth be restored?
Yes. Once the cause is managed, worn areas can be repaired with bonding, veneers or crowns.
Related topics
Tooth wear
Gradual loss of tooth surface from grinding, acid or rubbing.
Toothbrush abrasion
Tooth surface worn away by rubbing, often from hard brushing.
Sensitive teeth
Short, sharp tooth pain from cold, heat, sweet or touch.
Diet, sugar & acid
What and how often you eat and drink shapes your risk of decay and erosion.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026