Restorative Solutions for Worn Teeth

Have you looked in the mirror and not liked the shape of your teeth? Are your teeth worn down or misshapen? You should talk to your dentist about renewing your smile with restorative solutions. Restorative dentistry revitalizes your teeth to function correctly. Additionally, your dentist can give you the smile you have always wanted. 

One reason for needing restorative dentistry is worn teeth. Worn teeth can diminish your ability to chew your food and cause significant pain. In addition, you can develop tooth decay. 

older man sitting in dental chair getting his teeth examined by dentist restorative solutions Columbia South Carolina

What Causes Worn Teeth?

A number of factors can contribute to worn teeth. One of the more common causes of worn-down teeth is bruxism. Bruxism is the name for clenching or grinding your teeth. Over time, grinding your teeth can change their shape and destroy the enamel. Bruxism can cause other issues, such as headaches or muscle pain in the face and neck. 

Moreover, age can also attribute to worn teeth. Naturally, teeth begin to deteriorate with use as we get older. Regardless of the reason, you should restore your worn teeth to prevent any significant side effects. 

What Are My Options?

Your dentist will be able to provide you with several options to restore the look and function of your teeth. 

Dental Bonding

To repair a chipped, cracked, or worn tooth, a dentist may use dental bonding. Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that uses tooth-colored composite resin to improve your teeth. Composite resin is a plastic material that attaches to the tooth. In order to apply the bonding to your teeth, your dentist has to use a special light to “cure” or harden the material in place. 

Unlike other cosmetic options, dental bonding is more suited for more minor issues. You wouldn’t be able to use dental bonding on all surfaces of your teeth. 

Veneers

Dental veneers are another cosmetic option to give you the smile you desire. Veneers are thin shells that attach to the front surface of a tooth. Typically made of resin or porcelain, veneers look just like your natural teeth. In addition, you can receive several veneers simultaneously, making your smile even and symmetrical. 

To get veneers, your dentist must remove a thin layer of your enamel to ensure proper placement. Unfortunately, veneers are a permanent procedure, meaning you will have to have them for life. It is essential to know that veneers only last about 10-15 years with proper care. So, you will need to have them replaced periodically. 

Crowns

For significantly worn teeth, you may consider dental crowns. A dental crown mimics the look and shape of your natural teeth. Once your dentist places them, you will barely be able to tell which is a crown and which is your natural tooth. 

To place the crown, your dentist must reshape your remaining tooth. This will involve drilling and filing down parts of your tooth so that the crown can fit. Crowns are also permanent fixtures; however, they only last about 5-15 years.