On this page · 6 sections
01Why it matters
Enamel is your teeth's first line of defense. Beneath it is dentin, a softer, yellowish layer. Tiny channels in it lead toward the pulp, the tooth's nerve center.
When enamel wears thin, dentin is exposed, and teeth can become sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods. Thin or damaged enamel also makes it easier for decay to reach deeper into the tooth.
Because enamel cannot regrow, protecting it is a lifelong job. Early mineral loss, before a hole forms, can be slowed and partly repaired with help from fluoride and saliva.
Text version of this infographic
Cross-section of a tooth. Enamel is the hard outer layer on the visible part. Under it is a softer layer, and in the centre is the pulp, with nerves and blood vessels. The gum and bone hold the root.
02Signs and causes
Signs of enamel wear or erosion include:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Teeth that look more yellow as dentin shows through.
- Rounded, shiny, or cupped spots on the biting surfaces.
- Small chips, cracks, or edges that look see-through.
Common causes include:
- Acid from bacteria. Plaque bacteria turn sugar into acid that dissolves enamel and can lead to a cavity.
- Acidic foods and drinks. Soda, sports drinks, citrus juices, and wine can soften enamel, especially when sipped often.
- Stomach acid. Acid reflux or frequent vomiting can erode enamel over time.
- Grinding and clenching. Bruxism wears down the biting surfaces.
- Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled brush.
03What happens
The dentist checks your enamel at every exam. Early weak spots may be treated with a professional fluoride application. Areas where enamel has been lost may be repaired with a tooth-colored filling or bonding.
Badly worn or broken teeth may need a crown. If a cause such as reflux is suspected, the dentist may suggest you talk with your doctor. You will also talk about ways to protect your teeth from more wear.
04Cost factors
What treatment costs depends on:
- Which teeth are affected and how much enamel has been lost.
- Whether fluoride, a filling, or a crown is needed.
- The materials used for any repair.
- Your dental insurance plan. Call the office to check what your plan covers.
- The option to use CareCredit, which the office accepts.
05How to protect it
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush, using gentle pressure.
- Limit acidic and sugary drinks, and rinse with water afterward.
- Wait about an hour after acidic foods, drinks, or vomiting before you brush, so softened enamel is not scrubbed away.
- Chew sugarless gum after meals to boost saliva, which helps neutralize acid.
- Keep regular checkups so early wear is caught.
Worried about worn or damaged enamel? See our dental fillings page.
06Questions people ask
Can tooth enamel grow back?
No. Enamel has no living cells, so the body cannot regrow it once it is lost. Fluoride and saliva can help strengthen weakened areas before a hole forms, and a dentist can repair lost enamel with fillings, bonding, or crowns.
Why are my teeth sensitive?
Sensitivity often happens when enamel wears thin or gums pull back, exposing the dentin underneath. It can also be a sign of a cavity or a cracked tooth. The dentist can find the cause during an exam and suggest the right treatment.
Are acidic drinks bad for enamel?
Frequent sipping of soda, sports drinks, or juice can soften enamel over time. Drinking them with meals instead of throughout the day, using a straw, and rinsing with water afterward can reduce how much acid touches your teeth.
Dr. Sadek is the family dentist at Americana Family Dental on Americana Blvd in Orlando. He reviews the health information on this site. Review date: [date pending review]