Common Causes of Tooth Wear: Abrasion Caused by Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
This is tooth wear caused by grinding or rubbing against another hard object, such as your teeth during bruxism (teeth grinding). It can also be caused by eating hard foods, using a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard, or using a toothpaste that’s too abrasive.
Worn Teeth Caused by Attrition
Worn teeth can be caused by the natural process of chewing and biting. Attrition occurs when there is a misalignment of the teeth or an incorrect bite. When the teeth are not in alignment, they will rub against each other and cause wear. An incorrect bite can also cause attrition. If the teeth are not meeting properly, they will also rub against each other and cause wear.
Tooth Erosion
Worn teeth can also be caused by acid erosion. Acid erosion occurs when acidic fluids come into contact with the teeth and break down the enamel. Acidic fluids can come from foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits. They can also come from stomach acid that leaks into the mouth due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Trauma
This can occur due to an accident or injury, or from teeth grinding. When the tooth enamel is damaged, it can expose the dentin underneath. This can make the tooth more susceptible to wear and tear. In some cases, the damage may be so severe that the worn teeth need to be removed.
Certain Medical Conditions Can Contribute to Worn Teeth
There are some medical conditions that can contribute to tooth wear. These include eating disorders, such as bulimia and anorexia, which can cause vomiting and acid reflux. The acid, as mentioned above, can contribute to tooth enamel erosion.
Medications
Some medications can cause dry mouth, which can lead to worn teeth. Dry mouth occurs when there is a decrease in saliva production. Saliva is important because it helps to neutralize the acids in the mouth and keep the teeth healthy. Medications that can cause dry mouth include antihistamines, decongestants, and antidepressants.
Wear and Tear With Age
As we age, our teeth can start to wear down due to the natural process of chewing and biting. We also lose some of the enamel on our teeth as we age. This can make the teeth more susceptible to tooth wear.
How to Prevent Worn-Down Teeth?
There are a few things you can do to prevent worn tooth:
- Wear a mouth guard at night if you grind your teeth. This will help to protect your teeth from the damage caused by grinding.
- See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. This will help to identify any potential problems with your teeth so that they can be treated early.
- Avoid acidic foods and drinks. If you must consume them, be sure to brush your teeth afterwards.
- Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel on your teeth and makes them more resistant to damage.
- Quit smoking. Smoking can contribute to many dental problems, including tooth wear.
Worn Down Teeth Treatment Options: Fillings
If the tooth wear is mild, your dentist may recommend a filling. This will help to restore the tooth and protect it from further damage.
Crowns
If the tooth wear is more severe, your dentist may recommend a dental crown. A crown is a type of dental restoration that covers the entire tooth. It can help to restore the shape and function of the tooth.
Veneers
If the worn teeth are extensively damaged, your dentist may recommend veneers. Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They can help to improve the appearance of your smile by hiding imperfections such as chips, stains, or wear.
In addition, veneers can also help to protect your teeth from further wear and damage. If you’re considering veneers, it’s important to consult with a qualified dentist to ensure that they are the right treatment for you.
Implants
If the tooth wear is severe and there is not enough tooth left to support a restoration, your dentist may recommend an implant. An implant is a small metal post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. Once in place, the implant serves as a new root for the tooth. The implant is then topped with a porcelain crown, which restores the tooth to its natural shape and size. In addition to being highly effective, dental implants are also durable and long-lasting.
Bonding
If the tooth wear is mild and there is not enough tooth structure left to support a restoration, your dentist may recommend a dental bonding. Bonding is a type of dental restoration that uses a composite resin material to rebuild the tooth. The resin is matched to the color of your natural teeth and then bonded to the tooth using a special adhesive.
Once in place, the bonding material will restore the tooth to its natural shape and size. In addition, bonding can also help to improve the appearance of your smile by hiding imperfections such as chips, stains, or wear.
Worn teeth is a common problem that can occur for a variety of reasons. If you’re concerned about tooth wear, be sure to consult with your dentist. They will be able to evaluate the severity of the problem and recommend the best treatment option for you.
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