Gastroesophageal reflux disease is referred to as GERD. It's often referred to as acid reflux. When you relax the muscles below your esophagus allowing food to enter your stomach, you experience acid reflux. As a result, stomach acid can re-enter your esophagus and cause heartburn. Acid reflux can lead to GERD. The condition is a long-term one.
Impacting Oral Health
Acid reflux causes tooth erosion. So, what's happening is that your teeth are getting worn down, especially the chewing surfaces. That's a huge problem because erosive effects last a lifetime. You will have pain or sensitivity when you drink hot, cold, or sweet beverages when the enamel is gone. There may also be yellow discoloration of teeth over time, abscesses, a higher risk of cavities, and, in extreme cases, tooth loss.
Treating Acid Reflux
The news is good. Taking antacids and over-the-counter meds is usually enough to manage acid reflux. Besides quitting smoking, eating smaller meals, and moving around after you eat, you can make other lifestyle changes as part of the management process. You can, for example, chew gum for your oral health. You can neutralize and wash away acid by chewing sugar-free gum. Look for ADA-approved gum. A surgical procedure may be necessary if lifestyle changes and medication don't work. As a result of acid reflux surgery, the lower esophageal sphincter is reinforced. As always, make sure to visit the dentist regularly. Depending on how any tooth erosion manifests, your dentist may be the first one to identify acid reflux.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is referred to as GERD. It's often referred to as acid reflux. When you relax the muscles below your esophagus allowing food to enter your stomach, you experience acid reflux. As a result, stomach acid can re-enter your esophagus and cause heartburn. Acid reflux can lead to GERD. The condition is a long-term one.
