What Causes Tooth Wear?There are several factors that can contribute to tooth wear, including:
- Abrasion: This is the wearing down of tooth enamel due to excessive brushing, using a hard-bristled toothbrush, or brushing too vigorously.
- Attrition: This type of wear occurs from tooth-to-tooth contact, such as grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism).
- Erosion: This is the chemical wear of tooth enamel caused by acids. Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits, soda, and even acidic fruits, can erode tooth enamel over time. If you have Acid Reflux - it also lowers the PH in the mouth and causes teeth sensitivity.
- Teeth position: If the teeth are not in the right position and if the bite is not ideal, it may lead to excessive wear on the teeth
Signs of Tooth Wear
- Increased tooth sensitivity: You may experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Notched or flattened biting surfaces: Your teeth may appear shorter or flatter than normal.
- Visible wear facets: You may notice shiny, smooth areas on your teeth where enamel has been worn away.
- Difficulty biting or chewing: Tooth wear can make it difficult to bite into or chew certain foods.
Preventing Tooth Wear
- Proper brushing technique: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions.
- Limit acidic foods and drinks: Reduce your intake of sugary drinks, citrus fruits, and acidic foods.
- Use a straw: When drinking acidic beverages, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
- Avoid excessive grinding or clenching: If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouthguard.
- Regular dental checkups: Schedule regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist. Early detection and treatment can help prevent further tooth wear.
How Oasis Family Dental Can Help
At Oasis Family Dental, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. We offer a comprehensive range of dental services, including:
Comprehensive dental exams: To identify and address any signs of tooth wear early on.
Custom-fitted mouthguards: To protect your teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching.
Cosmetic dentistry options: To restore the appearance and function of worn teeth, such as dental bonding, veneers, or crowns and full mouth rehabilitation,
Clear Aligner treatment to address crowding and improper alignment of the teeth.
We are committed to providing personalized care and creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for all our patients. If you are concerned about tooth wear or any other dental issues, please contact us at 201-338-5138 to schedule a consultation.
Remember, taking care of your teeth is an investment in your overall health and well-being.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified dental professional for any dental concerns.
Author
Dr. Niyati Sheth
Dr. Niyati Sheth heads Oasis Family Dental, a modern dental practice serving patients from all over the Northern New Jersey Area. Conveniently located in Maywood, New Jersey, the practice caters to patients of all ages and backgrounds, offering a diverse range of oral health care procedures.
Alumni of New York University College of Dentistry, Dr. Sheth is a general practitioner and has received extensive training in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. She excels in prosthodontics, including crowns, bridges, dentures and more. Dr. Sheth also routinely performs minimally invasive root canals and is a licensed Invisalign® provider.
Her patients appreciate her dedication to individualized care, attention to detail, and patient education. Dr. Sheth has been serving the Northern New Jersey area for nearly a decade and has endeared herself to her patients, forming countless close personal relationships along the way. She's a member of ADA, NJDA and SPEAR education.
Office website: https://www.mydentaloasis.com
