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Erosion (dental)

Erosion is the loss of tooth structure by chemical forces not involving bacteria. Usually, erosion is found initially in the enamel. Destruction can be pervasive once these pervasive forces reach dentin.

Possible sources of erosion are from frequent sucking of lemon juice, exposure to chlorinated swimming pool water, and regurgitation of gastric acids. Signs of tooth destruction from erosion is a common characteristic in the mouths of people with bulimia since vomiting results in exposure of the oral cavity to gastric acids.

Frequently, the appearance is a broad, rounded concavity. There can be evidence of wear on surfaces of teeth not expected to be in contact with one another. If it occurs in children, there can be loss of enamel surface characteristics. Amalgam restorations in the mouth may clean and non-tarnished.