Tooth wear

Tooth wear refers to the loss of the hard, outer layer of the tooth, known as the enamel. This can occur as a result of several factors, including abrasion, attrition, erosion, and abfraction. Tooth wear can lead to a variety of dental problems, including sensitivity, pain, and tooth loss.

Causes

Tooth wear can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

• Abrasion: This is the process of wear caused by something rubbing against the teeth. The most common cause of abrasion is brushing the teeth too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush. Other causes can include habits such as nail-biting or pen-chewing.

• Attrition: This is wear caused by the teeth rubbing against each other. This can occur as a result of grinding or clenching the teeth, a condition known as bruxism.

• Erosion: This is wear caused by acid attacking the teeth. This can occur as a result of consuming acidic foods and drinks, or from stomach acid in people with conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

• Abfraction: This is a type of tooth wear that occurs near the gum line. It is believed to be caused by stress on the tooth, such as from biting or chewing.

Symptoms

The symptoms of tooth wear can vary depending on the cause and severity of the wear. They can include:

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
• Pain or discomfort when chewing or biting
• Changes in the appearance of the teeth, such as discoloration or changes in shape
• Tooth loss

Treatment

The treatment for tooth wear depends on the cause and severity of the wear. It can include:

• Changing brushing habits or using a softer toothbrush to reduce abrasion
• Wearing a mouth guard at night to reduce attrition from bruxism
• Avoiding acidic foods and drinks or treating underlying medical conditions to reduce erosion
• Dental procedures such as bonding, crowns, or veneers to repair worn teeth

Prevention

Preventing tooth wear involves addressing the underlying causes of the wear. This can include:

• Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and not brushing too hard
• Seeking treatment for bruxism
• Limiting consumption of acidic foods and drinks
• Regular dental check-ups to catch and treat wear early

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