How to Fix Pitted Teeth?

If not properly cared for, the enamel of teeth can be worn down or damaged over time. This includes the development of fissures and pits. It’s important to understand what tooth enamel is, what pitted teeth are, and the causes of pitted teeth, in order to avoid them. If you already have pitted teeth, you’ll find more information about how to fix pitted teeth below.

What is Enamel?

Tooth enamel is the thin, translucent, and strong surface of the tooth. This protective surface is very durable, but it isn’t invincible. Over time, it can be worn and damaged. Once this occurs, the enamel cannot grow back.

What Are Pitted Teeth? What Are the Causes?

Pitted teeth are teeth that have developed literal pits. These holes—as well as fissures and other forms of damage—can be caused by different factors. Some of the factors that can lead to pitted teeth and damaged enamel include:

Plaque. Plaque on the teeth can do a lot of damage over time. The bacteria can actually change food starches to acids. This eats away at teeth and causes pitted teeth.
Drinking fruit drinks and soda. Soda and acidic fruit drinks can wear away at the enamel of teeth over time.
Acid reflux. Those that suffer from acid reflux often find their stomach acid makes its way to their teeth. This eventually wears away at the enamel.
Bruxism. Clenching and grinding of the teeth will begin to wear down the enamel and cause damage to the teeth.
Genetics. Genetics can be a major factor in pitted teeth. Enamel hypoplasia is a genetic condition that causes pits. If your child is diagnosed with enamel hypoplasia, it’s particularly important to keep an eye on the health of their teeth and their oral healthcare in general.

To avoid pits and other forms of damage, you should take proper care of your oral health. This includes cutting back on soda and drinks with a lot of acids, getting a night guard if you suffer from bruxism, and visiting a doctor for your acid reflux. You may also need to consider changing your diet.