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Tooth wear can be defined as the thinning and wearing of tooth enamel over time. This can cause the teeth to become sensitive, yellowed, and change shape. The loss of tooth enamel causes the dentin, the softer tissue inside the tooth, to be exposed. Since dentin is not as durable as enamel, teeth become more prone to decay and breakage. Tooth wear can be controlled more easily when diagnosed and treated early.

Causes of Tooth Wear

Acid erosion: Acidic foods and drinks (cola, orange juice, fruit juices), stomach acid (reflux disease) dissolve tooth enamel
Abrasion: Habits such as hard toothbrushes, abrasive toothpastes, nail biting, and pen chewing wear down tooth enamel
Attrition: Habits such as clenching or grinding teeth cause the teeth to wear down by rubbing against each other
Bruxism: The habit of clenching or grinding teeth during sleep
Aging: Natural thinning of tooth enamel with age
Certain medications: Some medications can cause dry mouth, making tooth enamel more sensitive
Genetic factors: Some people may have weaker tooth enamel structure

Symptoms of Tooth Wear

Tooth sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet or sour foods and drinks
Yellowing: As the enamel thins, the underlying dentin layer becomes more prominent and the teeth turn yellow
Shape change: As teeth wear down, their edges may become sharper or flatter, especially
Brittleness: Teeth can break more easily because the enamel is thin
Pits or grooves: Pits or grooves may form on the tooth surface

Consequences of Tooth Wear

Aesthetic concerns: Yellowing of the teeth, shape change, and the formation of pits impair the aesthetic appearance
Chewing difficulty: Worn teeth can affect chewing function
Speech problems: Shape change of the teeth can make it difficult to speak
Tooth loss: Advanced wear can lead to tooth loss

Treatment of Tooth Wear

Treatment for tooth wear varies depending on the severity and cause of the wear. Treatment options include:

Fluoride applications: Fluoride applications can be done to strengthen tooth enamel
Sensitivity relief toothpastes: Can help reduce sensitivity
Filling: Small pits and cavities can be closed with fillings
Veneers: Thin porcelain veneers that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth
Crowns: Porcelain or metal-porcelain veneers that cover the entire tooth
Gum surgery: Gum surgery can be done in case of gum recession
Use of dental splints or night guards

Prevention of Tooth Wear

Reduce consumption of acidic foods and drinks
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush your teeth gently
Use non-abrasive toothpastes
Control your teeth clenching and grinding habits
Go to the dentist regularly for checkups