Undiagnosed Acid Reflux can destroy your Smile

Oct. 26, 2010 - PRLog -- Acid reflux is the condition where acid from the stomach leaks upwards where it can lead to permanent damage of various structures including the teeth. Dentists sometimes confuse the worn looking teeth with teeth damaged due to bruxism (grinding), but this is completely different. While both conditions may occur at the same time, acid reflux needs special consideration.

Dr. Zuk feels the rising obesity rates are one of the worst contributing factors to this disorder, but it has been recognized since the 1930's. "I collect old dental ads and one day found one titled 'Acid Mouth' and that was the best term I've ever heard to explain what we've been missing," said Zuk. Not only do pregnant women have this problem, but as the expert on the TV show Dr. Oz explained, anyone with a larger mid-section can be at higher risk.

Some interesting facts related to 'Acid Mouth' include the following:

*Many people do not have 'heart burn' and may only have a slight burning in the throat.
*Depending on the severity, different medications may be effective.
* Certain toothpastes can be better choices for reducing the damage to teeth from GERD.
*Why treating the problem only if it hurts can be a mistake.

The public needs to know that even if they brush, floss and regularly visit their dental professional certain medical disorders can continue to destroy their teeth unless it is treated. Overweight individuals can often find relief with addressing their weight problem. Dentists should become actively involved in referring patients suspected to have GERD to their physicians and they should take corrective steps to treat the damage to the teeth and
provide advice of risk reduction.

Reference: Dr.Oz.com, Seattle Institute for dental education

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Michael Zuk DDS is the author of the book 'Confessions of a Former Cosmetic Dentist' which explores the reasons why aggressive aesthetic dental care, in the form of Extreme Smile Makeovers, may exploit patients and damage healthy teeth. He is active in educating the public about dental related medical topics.Visit http://www.ConfessionsofaFormerCosmeticDentist.com for more information.