The Chairside Instructor 46 Tooth Erosion Other Oral Conditions Tooth erosion happens when your enamel begins to wear away and exposes the soft, yellow layer of dentin beneath it. When the enamel on your teeth thins out, your tooth protection is weakened and the inside layers can be exposed to more acid and bacteria. This puts you at greater risk of problems like decay, cavities and infection. Causes of Tooth Erosion • Eating and/or drinking items that are acidic or high in sugar, like soft drinks, fruit juices, candy and energy drinks • Frequent heartburn or acid reflux (also known as GERD) • Eating disorders like bulimia • Dry mouth (Xerostomia) Erosion and staining from drinking too much soda. The enamel has been worn away from around the existing fillings, putting the teeth at higher risk of decay and infection. Erosion from an eating disorder (bulimia). Severe erosion from acid reflux.