Tooth erosion is the loss of tooth enamel caused by acid exposure. Enamel is the thin outer covering of the tooth. This tough shell is the hardest tissue in the human body. Enamel covers the crown, which is the part of the tooth that's visible outside the gums. Enamel, the hard coating of the tooth, protects the sensitive dentin underneath.

Acidic foods and drinks can cause tooth erosion. Acidity is measured by its pH value, and anything that has a pH value lower than 5.5 can harm your teeth. Carbonated drinks can cause erosion. Acidic foods and drinks such as fruit and fruit juices — especially citrus ones, including lemon and orange — contain natural acids which can be harmful to your teeth.

According to Ayurveda, tooth erosion is also affected by climatic changes such as solar, lunar and planetary position.