Behavioral Factors

The manner in which dietary acids are introduced into the mouth, such as sipping, gulping, swishing, or using a straw, affects how long the teeth are in contact with the erosive challenge, and how much ETW experienced by the individual.¹¹ Temperature of acidic drinks and beverages influences the erosive potential of the product. Cold drinks have been demonstrated to have less erosive potential than a warm drink.³⁵ Frequent and prolonged consumption of acidic drinks and beverages results in ETW.³⁵ Even cosmetic procedures may pose a problem: Some whitening gels have been found to soften and alter enamel, suggesting an increased susceptibility to dental erosion.⁴⁸