25/09/2026
The Hidden Dental Damage of Acid Reflux
Most people think of acid reflux as a problem of the stomach or esophagus. What often goes unnoticed is the damage it can cause to the teeth.
Each reflux episode can expose the teeth to highly acidic stomach contents. Over time, this acid can gradually dissolve minerals from tooth enamel—the hard outer layer that protects your teeth. Unlike cavities, which are caused by acids produced by oral bacteria, erosion from acid reflux is a direct chemical attack on the tooth surface.
The process is usually slow and painless at first. As enamel wears away, teeth may become smoother, thinner, and increasingly sensitive. The natural anatomy of the chewing surfaces can gradually flatten, and the edges of teeth may become more translucent.
In more advanced cases, the underlying dentin becomes exposed. Because dentin is softer than enamel, tooth wear can accelerate, increasing the risk of sensitivity, structural damage, and the need for extensive dental treatment.
For some people, the first visible sign of chronic acid reflux isn't heartburn—it shows up in the smile.
The damage often develops silently over years. By the time it becomes obvious, part of the enamel may already be permanently lost.
