Do you ever wonder why some people have teeth that look flat or shorter than others? Well, it might be because of something called worn teeth. Worn teeth develop when the hard outer layer of your teeth, called enamel, starts to wear away. This is much more than a cosmetic problem. Because the enamel is a protective layer, your teeth become vulnerable to breaking or decay. Therefore, it is critical to understand what causes worn teeth and how you can fix it.
What Causes Worn Teeth?
You can develop worn teeth due to several things. One of the more common reasons is grinding or clenching your teeth, especially while sleeping. We call this issue bruxisim. Grinding your teeth can slowly wear down your enamel over time. As a result, it can make your teeth look flat or worn out. Sometimes, stress or anxiety can make you grind your teeth without even realizing it!
Another cause of worn teeth is acidic foods and drinks. When you consume too much acid in things like sodas, citrus fruits, or even certain medications, it can weaken the enamel on your teeth. Over time, this can lead to erosion and wearing down of your teeth.
Worn teeth can also be a sign of aging. As we get older, our teeth naturally wear down from years of chewing and biting. This is a normal part of aging. However, it can still cause problems if you don’t take care of it.
Side Effects of Worn Teeth
Having worn teeth can cause a lot of problems besides just the way they look. When your enamel wears away, it exposes the softer layer underneath–the dentin. Unlike enamel, dentin is more prone to decay. Additionally, it can cause tooth sensitivity, which will make it painful to eat or drink hot or cold things. Worn teeth can also affect your bite. As a result, it can lead to jaw pain or headaches. In severe cases, it can even cause cracked or broken teeth.
Dental Crowns to the Rescue
A common way that dentists will address worn teeth is with dental crowns. Dental crowns are like little caps that fit over your natural teeth. They help to protect and restore the shape and function of your teeth. Crowns essentially replace broken or worn enamel. As a result, you can reduce your issues with tooth decay and sensitivity. Dentists create crowns out of strong materials like porcelain or ceramic. Your dentist can customize the shape and color of the dental crown to blend with your existing teeth.
One way dental crowns can help with worn teeth is by covering up the damaged enamel and protecting the underlying tooth. Naturally, this can help reduce sensitivity and prevent problems like decay or fractures. Dental crowns can also restore the look of your teeth. They should give you a more natural and youthful appearance. This is because crowns completely cover the worn or damaged teeth. With restored enamel, you may notice improved confidence and self-esteem.