At Camden Family Dental, we strive to ensure the optimal oral health of our esteemed patients. That is why we recommend that our patients visit us regularly for checkups so that any underlying problems with their oral health can be diagnosed and treated promptly.
One of the most common problems we observe in our patients during routine checkups is worn-down teeth. This condition, also called tooth wear, occurs when there is a progressive loss of the tooth structure from the biting surfaces.
What are the Causes of Tooth Wear?
Tooth wear can occur due to various reasons. One common type of tooth wear is dental erosion. This is a condition in which the tooth surface is lost due to the intake of acidic beverages or foods that destroy the outer dental enamel. Other causes of tooth wear are mechanical. These are:
- Teeth grinding habit
- Imbalance dental bite
- Overhanging filings or crowns ]
- Tooth misalignment
What are the Consequences of Untreated Tooth Wear?
Tooth wear may seem like a straightforward issue that does not affect oral health. However, the fact is that untreated tooth wear can significantly affect one’s dental and physical health. Some of the consequences of tooth wear are:
1) Sensitivity :
wear of the teeth, whether due to chemical erosion or mechanical abrasion, leads to the destruction of the outer enamel layer. This makes the teeth sensitive to hot and cold foods or drinks.
2) Dental Cavities :
continued tooth wear weakens the teeth and makes them prone to tooth decay.
3) Temporomandibular Joint Disorders :
if the underlying cause of tooth wear is teeth grinding or imbalance tooth bite, it will put excessive pressure on the jaw joints leading to a group of disorders called temporomandibular joint disorders. Common symptoms of TMJ disorders include difficult or painful mouth opening, cracking or popping sounds, or even jaw dislocation.
4) Chewing Difficulty :
tooth wear gradually makes the biting surfaces of the teeth flat. As a result, it becomes difficult to chew and digest food optimally, leading to malnutrition.
How is Tooth Wear Managed?
The first step in managing tooth wear is identifying the underlying cause. We will prepare custom-made nightguards for you, which will create a barrier between the teeth and prevent damage to them. Furthermore, if the teeth have become flat, we will restore their shape and aesthetics with composite bonding or porcelain crowns. Finally, if the cause of tooth wear is tooth misalignment, we will perform orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners to restore optimal tooth alignment.
Tooth wear is a serious issue affecting one’s quality of life. However, the good news is that tooth wear is treatable if early treatment is sought. So, if you feel that you or a loved one is suffering from tooth wear, visit us without delay and let us preserve your teeth and smile.