When the enamel on your teeth is healthy and intact, this hard outer casing protects the sensitive pulp, nerves, and blood vessels contained inside. However, if you tend to grind your teeth or are in a habit of eating acidic foods, the enamel can start to wear down and thin.

As the enamel wears down, you can start having symptoms every time you eat. Below are a couple of symptoms to look out for when trying to determine whether your teeth are worn down and need to be treated by a dentist.

1. Teeth Have Become Overly Sensitive to Sweet Foods and Cold Beverages  

One symptom that could indicate that your teeth's enamel is wearing down is when they become overly sensitive. This is especially true if you have never experienced sensitive teeth before.

Every time you eat sugar-laden food or cold beverages, you may have started to notice aching in your teeth. Because the enamel has become thin, the sugary residues are coming into contact with the pulp and nerves, and the sharp decrease in temperature is affecting the delicate tissues. If your teeth are worn because you grind your teeth either in the back or the front, the sensitivity will be felt greatest in that area.

2. Small Chips of Your Teeth's Enamel Come off When Eating Hard Foods

Another sign that your teeth have become worn is when you start noticing small chips of enamel coming off whenever you eat something hard. Because the normally hard enamel has become thin and brittle, it is more prone to breakage.

If you have started finding slivers of enamel in your mouth after eating, you need to have your teeth examined right away by a dental professional. Since pieces of the enamel are coming off, the holes they leave behind will make it more likely that you will develop cavities, tooth decay, and even infection.

If your teeth have become sensitive and are shedding small chips whenever you eat hard foods, the enamel is likely worn down to the point that it is thin and brittle. Fortunately, there are ways to treat the worn areas of the teeth, such as applying a coat of resin or having veneers put on over them. If you have been having these symptoms, contact a dentist in your area to make an appointment for them to examine your teeth and discuss with you available treatment options they feel will be right for you and your dental health.

Speak to your dentist to learn more.