 |
 |
Register to receive samples and special offers, customize your experience
on our site and/or receive the Dental-Professional E-Newsletter.
More
Login
|
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
Tooth wear, or the non-carious loss of tooth structure,1 typically falls into three main categories: abrasion, attrition and erosion.
Tooth abrasion is the wearing away of the tooth substance by bruxism, brushing, clenching, and other mechanical causes.2 Bruxism can be found to some degree in all patients, and is most often in the anterior teeth.1
Tooth attrition occurs from tooth-to-tooth contact as during mastication. Unlike tooth abrasion, tooth attrition is primarily connected to aging.3
Tooth erosion, in contrast, is caused by, not mechanical processes, but chemical processes not involving bacteria.4 Here the tooth structure begins to dissolve in contact with acidic foods or beverages.1 Tooth erosion, in particular, is associated with the modern, health-conscious lifestyle.5 While in the 21st century, teeth are lasting longer,6 diets today are often high in acid from sources like fruit, sodas, orange juice and wine. These demineralize and soften the tooth surface, making it more susceptible to physical damage, even by brushing.5,7 As the enamel layer becomes thinner, teeth can become visibly less white and older-looking.7
In the treatment of tooth wear, early detection is important. Professionals must first assess the tooth wear as mild, moderate or severe, and then determine if the wear is an unacceptable level of wear for a particular age group. Then the patient and dental professional must decide together on a course of action. In most cases, the further progression of tooth wear can be slowed by lifestyle changes, such as eliminating the acidic foods and drinks that lead to erosion.8
Patients with tooth wear may also experience symptoms of dentin hypersensitivity, as the enamel demineralizes, softens, and wears away. Treatment in this case would involve use of a de-sensitizing toothpaste with low abrasivity.8
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
|