At some point, everyone experiences a touch of heartburn. For some, though, it’s not uncommon to have heartburn two, three, or more times a week. Cases like this are a good indication of acid reflux disease. Other common symptoms of an acid reflux condition include:

• Bloating or burping
• Regurgitation
• Hiccups
• Nausea
• Narrowing of the esophagus
• Weight loss
• Bloody/black stools or bloody vomiting
• Sore throat, hoarseness, wheezing, or dry cough

These uncomfortable or unpleasant symptoms can all have an impact on your overall wellbeing, but did you know your oral health can also be affected?

A patient who experiences acid reflux several times a week is at risk of decay and possibly worse. That’s because when acid from the stomach comes into contact with the teeth, it has a damaging effect on their protective layer of enamel. Then, as the sensitive layer of dentin underneath is exposed, this becomes a bigger and bigger problem.

Symptoms of teeth damaged by acid include:

• Sensitivity, in particular to foods that are cold, hot, or sweet
• Teeth that have thinned or become shorter
• Pain or irritation
• Teeth with sharp edges

Have you experienced any of these symptoms? Call Robison Dental Group for help. We offer effective general, cosmetic, and restorative services for patients from Canton, Ann Arbor, Northville, Westland, Plymouth, and beyond.