Everyone knows that decay and accidents can seriously damage teeth. That’s why dentists constantly admonish their patients to take precautions that will safeguard their smile from the ravages of sugar and the possibility of a traumatic accident. However, there is another type of tooth damage that you may not think about very often: tooth wear. Let’s discuss the types of tooth wear and how your dentist in Roselle Park can help you address this problem.
Erosion
Although tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it is vulnerable to erosion. As you continually drink soda or other carbonated beverages, the acids in them slowly eat away at the tooth enamel. Beverages are not the only culprit behind erosion, however. It is also common in individuals who suffer from acid reflux disease and eating disorders, such as bulimia and anorexia.
By being mindful of what you consume and managing your health conditions, you may be able to prevent your tooth enamel from eroding.
Attrition
One dictionary defines attrition as the “action or process of gradually reducing the strength or effectiveness of someone or something through sustained attack or pressure.” When it comes to your teeth, that attack or pressure comes from other teeth. If you constantly grind or clench your pearly whites, you can cause them to wear down prematurely.
Preventing attrition may be difficult because many people don’t even realize that they grind or clench their teeth, particularly if they do so at night. If you often wake up with a sore jaw, you should visit your dentist to ask about getting a nightguard that may be able to protect your teeth from this type of wear.
Abrasion
Abrasion is tooth wear that occurs due to mechanical processes other than attrition. One common cause of this issue is incorrect brushing technique. If you apply too much pressure when you’re cleaning your pearly whites, you could accidentally scrub away some of your enamel. Continually using your teeth as a tool to open packages or trim your nails could also contribute to abrasion.
The hygienists at your dentist’s office are always happy to help patients master proper brushing technique. If you’re concerned that you might be brushing too hard, ask for their advice on how to adjust your habits. To stop yourself from using your teeth as a tool, it may be wise to carry a little pair of scissors or pocket knife with you.
Treating Tooth Wear
If your teeth have already suffered significant wear, you may need dental crowns in Roselle Park to protect them. These custom tooth covers can reduce the sensitivity that often accompanies worn teeth. They can also restore the beauty and full function of your smile. In severe cases, tooth wear may call for extractions. You may need to consider dental implants or other tooth replacement options to get your grin back to its full potential.
Tooth wear is a serious problem. If you suspect that your teeth are suffering from erosion, attrition, or abrasion, act quickly to stop the damage and repair your precious smile.
About Roselle Park Dental and Implants
Our team has five talented doctors on-staff, including two general dentists and an implant dentist. They derive great satisfaction from helping patients protect and restore their teeth. To learn more about our practice and our services, contact us at 908-245-1745.