One of the most common dental problems that occur is tooth wear. Through constant use, eating and drinking our teeth begin to wear down. If left untreated, tooth wear can lead to a number of other dental problems and issues such as yellowed teeth, tooth sensitivity, gaps between teeth, and jaw aches.

Fortunately, with advancements in dental care, there are a number of treatment options for tooth wear available that can improve your smile, reduce pain and protect your teeth from further damage.

What Causes Tooth Wear?

Worn-down teeth can be caused by a number of factors. People with worn teeth may experience cracked teeth, tooth sensitivity, tooth decay, jaw, neck and back pain, receding gums, difficulty chewing and biting.

At your next dental appointment, your dentist will ask you a series of questions during your appointment in an effort to identify the root cause of your worn-down teeth. This will help both you and your dentist determine the best treatment solution.

Attrition

This is the most common cause of tooth wear. This type of wear is caused by using your teeth for activities such as chewing, clenching or grinding. When your jaw muscles continually contract, they can put pressure on your teeth and cause them to wear down over time.

Abrasion

Abrasion is another type of tooth wear that can occur. It’s usually caused by friction from brushing too hard or from brushing in a horizontal motion. 

Erosion

Erosion is a type of tooth wear that’s usually the result of acids in your mouth and food. Over time, these acids can break down your tooth enamel and cause your teeth to become thin and worn down.

Tooth Wear Prevention

Preventing tooth wear is easy if you’re aware of the factors that can cause it. By understanding the root cause of your tooth wear, you are then able to better manage and protect your teeth from further damage.

If you’re experiencing tooth wear, your dentist may recommend a number of treatment solutions such as:

White Fillings And Composite Resin Restoration

If you have any small cavities, your dentist may use a white filling to restore the tooth. This is a composite resin material that’s matched to the colour of your teeth. It’s also used to rebuild areas of teeth that have been worn down.

Mouth Guards

Not just for sports players, night time mouth guards are a great way to protect your teeth from grinding and clenching. When you wear a mouth guard at night, it will help to protect your teeth from further wear and damage.

Dental Crowns And Dental Bridges

If you have large areas of tooth wear, your dentist may recommend a dental crown or dental bridge. A dental crown is a cap that can cover an entire tooth to prevent cracks in enamel from spreading and protect the tooth from additional damage.

Don’t Let Worn Teeth Hold You Back

If you’re experiencing tooth wear, don’t let it hold you back from smiling with confidence. At Noosa Family Dental, a team of dental professionals are here to help. Contact today for a consultation to discuss the best treatment solution for your worn teeth.