Repair Tooth Surface Wear or Loss In Lymington
Revive your smile with incredible tooth surface restoration at The Smiles Studio
When Does Tooth Wear Occur?
When Does Tooth Wear Occur?
Tooth wear tends to develop gradually and can be triggered by various factors, such as habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth, particularly during sleep or periods of stress. Consuming acidic foods and beverages also plays a role, as they erode enamel over time. Additionally, natural ageing processes contribute to the gradual wearing down of teeth through years of use and exposure to various elements. Proper oral hygiene and awareness of these contributing factors are essential for minimising excessive tooth wear.
Key factors that contribute to tooth wear include:
- Dental injury
- Tooth decay
- Unsafe teeth whitening
- Diet high in acids and sugars
- Teeth grinding
- Incorrect brushing techniques
Treatment for Dental Erosion
Treatment for Dental Erosion
Dental erosion can arise from excessive use of teeth whitening products or unsafe whitening methods carried out without professional dental oversight. Contributing factors include a diet high in acidic and sugary foods, such as citrus fruits and carbonated drinks.
Our approach to managing dental erosion involves both preventive measures and restorative treatments. By evaluating a patient’s overall health, we can identify any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to erosion. Addressing these conditions through appropriate medical referrals can help mitigate the risk of further erosion.
We offer dietary advice to promote a balanced diet, which includes limiting the intake of acidic and sugary foods to reduce the risk of erosion. We might also recommend chewing sugar-free gum to help stimulate saliva production and neutralise acids.
For teeth damaged by erosion, we provide several restoration options, including:
- Composite fillings
- Dental crowns
- Inlays and onlays
If erosion leads to cavities and infection of the dental pulp, a root canal may be required to remove the infection and prevent its spread.
Do You Have Any Tooth Wear Query?
Our clinic provides patients with information about tooth wear and screening. Get in touch with us by phone or email and we can book a consultation to assess your oral health.
Dental Abrasion
Dental Abrasion
Tooth abrasion is a condition that arises from incorrect brushing techniques, where the hard bristles of a toothbrush excessively wear down the enamel on the tooth surface. Dentists can provide valuable advice on proper brushing methods to help prevent this issue.
Dental abrasion not only impacts the teeth but also inflicts trauma on the gum tissue. This can result in gum recession, which exposes the underlying dentin and tooth root surfaces. If left untreated, dental abrasion can heighten tooth sensitivity and increase the likelihood of developing oral diseases.
Prevention is key, and adhering to recommended brushing techniques can significantly reduce the risk of dental abrasion. Opting for a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush instead of one with hard bristles can minimise the risk of abrasion and associated oral trauma.
In cases where gum recession has occurred and dentin is exposed, dental composites may be used to restore the affected area. These fillings help to repair tooth structure, alleviate sensitivity, and prevent decay.
Some FAQs on Tooth Wear
1. What is Dental Attrition?
Dental attrition occurs when the surfaces of the teeth become worn down due to bruxism, a condition commonly known as teeth grinding. This wear leads to the flattening of the dental cusps, exposing the sensitive dentin beneath and causing increased tooth sensitivity and discomfort. Bruxism can happen both consciously and unconsciously during sleep. If not managed, dental attrition may lead to further complications, such as misaligned bites and a higher susceptibility to oral infections. Promptly addressing bruxism is essential for preserving overall dental healh.
2. How is Dental Attrition treated?
Dental attrition, often caused by bruxism, can be managed with several effective treatments. One common approach is the use of custom-fitted night or mouth guards, designed to minimise excessive tooth contact and protect against further attrition. For teeth that have already suffered damage, restorative treatments such as crowns, onlays, inlays and fillings can help restore their function and appearance.
Night and mouth guards are individually crafted based on the specific grinding habits and oral dimensions of the patient. Likewise, dental restorations are precisely designed to match the unique structure of the patient’s teeth, ensuring both function and aesthetics are addressed.
If left untreated, persistent teeth grinding can cause significant damage to the teeth and affect existing dental restorations. Employing a night or mouth guard not only protects the teeth from wear but also promotes overall oral health and helps reduce future dental care costs.
3. How frequently should I have a tooth wear screening?
Regular dental check-ups are recommended to monitor and detect tooth wear. If signs of wear are observed, we can accurately identify the type and cause of the issue and recommend suitable treatments.
Tooth wear can manifest as dental erosion, dental abrasion, or dental attrition, each requiring specific dental interventions. It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience one or more of these conditions affecting their teeth.
4. What is the diagnosis and treatment process for tooth wear?
Patients experiencing dental erosion due to medical conditions may need to be referred to their General Practitioner (GP) for appropriate care.
For individuals with bruxism or acid reflux, using a night guard or mouth guard might not be advisable, as it can trap excess acid on the teeth. Since stress and anxiety are common triggers for bruxism, managing these factors often requires both dental and medical intervention to address anxiety effectively.
Tooth wear treatment generally focuses on dental restoration and preventive strategies to prevent further damage. Our approach prioritises preserving natural tooth structure and oral health through treatments such as composite fillings, inlays, onlays and dental crowns.
By educating patients about the causes of tooth wear and preventive measures, we help them adopt lifestyle practices that enhance overall health. This includes maintaining a balanced diet and using a soft-bristled toothbrush to ensure effective oral hygiene.
