Can acid reflux cause oral problems?

You bet! People with acid reflux, especially during the night can have areas of the mouth where the acidic saliva pools and it can lead to tooth sensitivity, gum inflammation and and can develop erosive lesions in the teeth.

Erosive lesions in teeth are areas missing enamel and often are concave (cupped). They may be found on the occlusal surfaces of teeth or on the buccal or lingual surface usually (but not always) near the gums.  These lesions differ from areas of exposed dentin that are due from the rubbing action of the opposing dentition because the dentin does not actually make contact with the teeth from the opposing jaw but instead are truly caused by erosion. Tooth brushing may play a secondary role in their formation but it is not their primary cause.

Acid reflux can also cause gingival inflammation where the acid habitually rests. Often this can be seen in the palatal gingiva or the mandibular lingual gingiva.  The gums look redder and are edematous even when a patient has good hygiene. According to Web MD  about 5% of patients with GERD develop Barrett's espophogus a condition" where stomach acid causes precancerous changes in cells". It stands to reason that cells in the mouth may also be affected. Web MD goes on to point out that "only 1% of people with Barredtt's esophagus will get esophageal cancer."

If you suspect you have acid reflux you might try using some over the counter Prilosec and see if you notice a difference or even better visit your physician and have a proper diagnosis of whether you actually have the sort of gastric reflux condition that should be treated.

from Ask Dr. Spindel - http://lspindelnycdds.blogspot.com/2018/11/can-acid-reflux-cause-oral-problems.html - http://lspindelnycdds.blogspot.com/

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