Having worn teeth is a common dental issue that can affect anyone. Whether due to age or lifestyle, worn teeth can affect your smile and quality of life. Tooth wear can cause several problems that may interrupt your health, such as tooth sensitivity, difficulty eating, and an increased risk of tooth decay.
Causes of Worn Teeth
There are several causes of worn teeth. Some of the most common causes include:
Bruxism
Bruxism is a condition in which a person grinds or clenches their teeth. It can occur during the day or while sleeping. Without treatment, grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and other problems.
Acid Erosion
Acid erosion occurs when acid from foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and carbonated drinks, wears down the teeth’ enamel. With thinned enamel, your teeth are more likely to become sensitive. Moreover, it can increase your chances of developing cavities.
Abrasion
Abrasion occurs when you brush your teeth too hard or use the wrong kind of toothbrush. While enamel is the strongest tissue in your body, repetitive forces can damage it. As a result, your brushing habits can strip away your enamel. Over time, abrasion can cause tooth sensitivity and increase the risk of tooth decay.
Age
Over the course of a lifetime, our teeth can wear down. This is because everyday actions like biting and chewing can slowly change the shape of our teeth. Although it is due to natural forces, it can cause teeth to become flat and worn. Unfortunately, this can lead to tooth sensitivity and difficulty eating.
Restorative Treatment Options for Worn Teeth
If you have worn teeth, there are several restorative treatment options available. Your dentist can help determine the best treatment option for your specific needs.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that uses tooth-colored resin to repair and restore the appearance of worn teeth. Unlike other procedures, dental bonding is quick and minimally invasive. Because the resin acts as enamel, this procedure can help to protect teeth from further wear and decay.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a type of restorative treatment option that can repair severely worn teeth. Much like a protective cap, dental crowns sit over the top of a reshaped tooth. Your dentist will create custom-made crowns to fit over the existing tooth and provide additional strength and protection.
Veneers
Veneers are a cosmetic treatment option that can restore the appearance of worn teeth. To improve the appearance of your teeth, your dentist will install thin, custom-made shells. Then, they will place the veneers on the front surface of your teeth to camouflage any imperfections.
Dental Implants
In severe cases of tooth wear, dental implants may be the best treatment option. Dental implants are a permanent solution that can replace missing teeth and restore the appearance and function of your smile. A dental implant is a titanium prosthetic tooth root that your dentist will place in your jaw, making it a permanent solution.
Lifestyle Changes
In addition to these treatment options, your dentist may also recommend lifestyle changes to help prevent further tooth wear. For example, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing your teeth gently can minimize damage to your teeth. Additionally, you may need to switch your diet if it affects your enamel. Finally, wearing a night guard can reduce damage from grinding your teeth.