Reflux (GERD) & Oral Health: Acid Damage You Can't Ignore

GERD affects millions of people, but many don't realize it damages teeth. Stomach acid erodes enamel, exposes sensitive dentin, and weakens your smile. Understanding this connection is the first step toward protecting both your digestive and dental health.
(Dentisty Journal, 2022)

What Research Shows

Enamel Erosion is Significant and Common

The link between GERD and enamel erosion is well-established. A systematic review found a significant association between GERD and enamel erosion, with patients being over 4 times more likely to experience erosion than those without reflux. In fact, studies show that nearly 98% of children with GERD exhibit measurable enamel erosion compared to just 19% of healthy peers.

This erosion isn't cosmetic. It weakens tooth structure and opens the door to further damage.
(Cases Journal, 2009)

Acid Exposure Increases Tooth Sensitivity

When acid erodes enamel, it exposes the underlying dentin and its nerve-connected tubules. This causes tooth sensitivity to temperature, sweets, and acidic foods a common complaint among GERD patients.
(Clujul Medical, 2018)

The Cavity Connection is More Complex Than You'd Think

While enamel erosion and sensitivity are well-supported, the relationship between GERD and cavities is mixed. Some studies show no consistent link due to saliva changes and pH effects, though certain GERD medications can cause dry mouth, which may indirectly increase decay risk.

Bottom line: protect your enamel from acid, that's where the evidence is strongest.
(International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2021)

Untreated GERD Worsens Both Conditions

Without proper management, GERD leads to serious digestive complications like esophagitis and Barrett's esophagus, while continuous acid exposure accelerates dental erosion over time. Patients with unmanaged reflux show progressive enamel loss unless acid suppression therapy is started.
(StratPearls, 2025)

Protective Steps

Manage Reflux with Medical and Dietary Guidance

Work with your healthcare provider to control GERD through medication or lifestyle changes. Reducing acid reflux at the source is the most effective way to protect your teeth.

Wait Before Brushing After Reflux Episodes

This is crucial: avoid brushing your teeth immediately after reflux or vomiting. Acid temporarily softens enamel, and brushing can mechanically wear down these softened surfaces. Instead, wait 30–60 minutes and then brush gently. In the immediate aftermath, rinse with water or a fluoride mouthwash to neutralize acid.

Consider Technology Designed for Gentle, Even Cleaning

When acid reflux softens your enamel, even gentle brushing can cause extra wear. The Feno Smartbrush™ TrueFit Mouthpiece surrounds every tooth with thousands of soft bristles, simulating a gentle cleansing action that protects enamel weakened by reflux. In just 20 seconds, it delivers a complete, even clean helping you protect teeth from acid erosion while keeping your smile strong between reflux episodes.

Rinse with Water or Mouthwash

After a reflux episode, rinse your mouth with plain water or an alkaline mouthwash to neutralize lingering acid. This simple step reduces the damage window.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brush gently twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and see your dentist regularly to monitor enamel loss.

Bottom Line

Reflux affects far more than your digestion. It silently harms your smile through enamel erosion and sensitivity. The good news: with proper GERD management and informed dental care, you can significantly reduce damage and protect your long-term oral health. Address reflux today, and your teeth will thank you tomorrow.