Reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or simply heartburn is really common among people with cystic fibrosis. Up to 90% of PwCF will experience GERD at some stage. Acid reflux from your stomach can soften the enamel on your teeth, making them more vulnerable to tooth wear. Over time once the enamel layer is dissolved it exposes the inner layer of the tooth – dentine. This dentine is much softer than enamel and is darker in colour. Once this gets exposed your teeth can start to rapidly wear away. 

 

Some people have reflux but experience very mild symptoms and it may be your dentist that spots it first. Typically, teeth become flatter and shorter and your upper front teeth in particular may start looking darker (as they become thinner and more translucent) or the edges may start chipping away. Often teeth can become much more sensitive to hot and cold as the tooth loses its protective enamel. You may also have a sour taste in the morning due to the acid. 

 

If you know you have reflux you should discuss this with your medical team who may suggest medication to manage the levels of acid in your stomach. If you are on medication but your reflux is still ongoing make sure you mention it again. You may simply need a higher dose or a different medication. 

 

Tooth wear is a difficult condition for dentists to manage and often involves extensive treatment such as crowns on multiple teeth. This is costly and also shortens the life span of your natural teeth. The key message for acid reflux and tooth wear is that prevention is much better (and far cheaper!) than cure.