How Do You Fix Worn Down Teeth?

 

how-do-you-fix-worn-down-teeth

Worn-down teeth can be unsightly, cause sensitivity, and lead to other oral health problems. Fortunately, there are methods for preventing and repairing worn-out teeth.

Do you live in Southeast Michigan and need assistance with your worn down teeth? Please contact the Dentist on Chinguacousy Rd.

How to tell if your teeth are worn down

Teeth are smaller in size.

If your teeth have been worn down, they will seem substantially smaller.

Teeth are more sensitive.

As the protecting enamel on your teeth wears away, your teeth become more sensitive.

Teeth are chipped.

Teeth that are worn down are weaker and more prone to chipping.

My teeth have started to yellow. 

Thin enamel can reveal the layer beneath and cause teeth to yellow.

Causes of worn-down teeth

Wear and tear on teeth can be caused by a variety of reasons, including:

  • Age
  • Attrition (Teeth Grinding)
  • deterioration (Caused by Acids)
  • Abrasion (Eating Unhealthy Foods)

Age

Your teeth will naturally deteriorate over time as a result of usage. According to a Harvard Health article, a lifetime of chewing and exposure to acidic foods will gradually wear away and disintegrate the protective outer layer of enamel, flattening biting edges.

Attrition: Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding causes attrition. Stress and some drugs induce bruxism, or teeth grinding. Teeth grinding occurs when you are awake or asleep and wears down the teeth. This disorder can cause jaw discomfort, headaches, and shattered or split teeth.

A dentist can rule out other reasons for teeth grinding, such as TMJ disorders. The best therapy is an occlusal splint, a custom-made mouthguard. The splint acts as a buffer between normal teeth and the devastation of grinding.

Erosion Caused by Acids

The Oral Health Foundation defines erosion as the acidic loss of dental enamel — “the teeth's strong, protective coating.” Acid attacks are triggered by:

  • Carbonated drinks
  • Juices
  • Citrus fruits
  • Frequent vomiting, which can be caused by illnesses

The Oral Health Foundation advises restricting acidic meals and beverages to mealtimes and brushing with fluoride toothpaste an hour after eating or drinking. Regular dental appointments can also help you maintain good oral health and avoid tooth deterioration.

Abrasion: Chewing Things You Shouldn’t

Non-tooth to tooth contact causes abrasion. Habits like crushing ice, chewing pencils, nail-bitting are examples. Brushing too forcefully can abrade.

How to fix worn down

Crowns, veneers, or resin bonding can repair worn teeth. The best treatment for you will depend on the damage and your smile goals. Get in touch with the Dentist on Chinguacousy Rd here are some tips to fix it:

Resin Bonding

Resin bonding restorations apply resin to worn-down edges of teeth to rebuild them naturally. The resin will match your tooth color, making the repair invisible.

It is less intrusive than porcelain restorations like crowns and veneers, but less permanent.

Veneers

Porcelain veneers cover the front of the teeth to strengthen and beautify the enamel. Custom-made veneers are bonded to existing teeth with a cement-like adhesive. The veneer requires a thin layer of enamel to be removed from the original tooth, although this should not cause harm if done properly.

This minimally invasive therapy takes two sessions.

Also read: Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Veneers

Crowns

In order to restore dental health and prevent additional damage, porcelain crowns completely cover worn-down teeth. Each permanent crown is produced from an imprint of your existing tooth and cemented in place.

This procedure takes two visits and is not uncomfortable. A crown may last decades if you practice proper oral hygiene.

Treatment for worn-down teeth by Dentist on Chinguacousy Rd

Visit: qcdentistry.ca and Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment.

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