Can Acid Reflux Cause Cavities?

YES….acid reflux is extremely harmful to tooth enamel.  Acid reflux, GERD, and heartburn causes stomach acid to flow up from the esophagus into the mouth.  Once the acid enters the mouth it mixes with saliva and creates an “acid bath” on the teeth.  Although enamel is very strong, it cannot withstand the constant acid attack thus the breakdown of enamel occurs.  GERD commonly causes dry mouth which causes an added risk of tooth decay because the acid does not rinse off of the tooth surface efficiently.  One’s diet also affects acid rising in the stomach.  A diet with excessive wine, spicy foods, and coffee can cause high levels of acid in the stomach which in turn causes high acid levels in the mouth.  Acid reflux and GERD are often undetected by physicians because in many cases no symptoms occur.  Our Riverside Dental Wellness Office often discovers undiagnosed cases of acid reflux and GERD with our clinical examination and Carifree acid level test.  Depending on the level of acid in your saliva we may recommend that you visit your primary care physician for an evaluation.  If it is determined that you have acid reflux or GERD your physician will place you on a medication to decrease the level of acid in the stomach.  Using acid reducer medication along with acid neutralizing mouth rinse and toothpaste will help to protect your enamel.  If you suspect that you may have tooth erosion or cavities from acid reflux or GERD please contact our Riverside Dental Wellness office at (951)686-3666.