Dentists share concerns over enamel loss in young patients
Dentists are worried about the increasingly common issue of enamel loss in young patients. Dr Rupert Austin, from King’s College Dental Institute, said that there has been a significant increase in the proportion of young people with ‘zero enamel’ in at least one part of their teeth in the last two decades.
According to Dr Austin, the proportion of young people who have no enamel covering at least a small section of their teeth was around 9 percent 20 years ago, but this has risen to 23 percent of 16-24 year olds in 2017.
Dentists believe that diet and the increased prevalence of eating disorders have contributed to rising rates of enamel loss, with fizzy drinks a major contributor to erosion. Dr Austin suggested that there been a significant increase in the consumption of acidic fruit juices as well as canned pop and these popular products are taking their toll on the teeth. The incidence of eating disorders in young people has also increased. Bulimia is particularly damaging for the teeth, as stomach acids present in vomit erode the enamel.
Dr Austin recommends moderating your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks and ensuring you brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to reduce the risk of erosion and protect the enamel.
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