Enamel Erosion vs. Tooth Decay
Erosion is chemical wear from acids (dietary, gastric, environmental); decay is bacterial demineralization. Both lose tooth structure but require different prevention strategies.
Key Facts
- Erosion is acid-driven, not bacteria-driven
- Decay requires plaque biofilm and fermentable carbohydrates
- GERD and frequent acidic drinks are leading erosion causes
- Erosion shows smooth, glossy concavities; decay shows opaque, rough lesions
Erosion
Erosion is the chemical dissolution of enamel by acids without bacterial involvement. Sources include citrus, soda, wine, vomiting, and reflux. Surfaces appear smooth, rounded, and glossy.
Decay
Caries is the loss of mineral by acids produced by plaque bacteria fermenting sugars. Lesions appear chalky white, brown, or cavitated and harbor sticky plaque.
Coexistence
Erosion can accelerate decay by exposing dentin earlier, and decay can occur on already-eroded surfaces.