Tooth wear is the loss of tooth structure that is not related to caries. It is subdivided into attrition, erosion, and abrasion.
- Attrition is the loss of tooth structure due to tooth-to-tooth friction such as chewing, bad occlusion, and grinding.
- Erosion is the wearing away of the tooth surface by chemical processes such as acidic or sugary food and drinks, acid reflux, bulimia, etc.
- Abrasion is commonly caused by friction or mechanical forces from foreign objects such as toothbrushes, pencil, etc.
How can we prevent and treat tooth wear?
- First, we address the root cause.
- Grinding – night guards
- Bad occlusion – orthodontics
- Hard, excessive brushing – soft toothbrush and a good brushing technique
- Acid reflux – consult with your physician
- Acidic or sugary food and drinks – diet changes
- Second, we monitor the tooth wear.
- Third, we treat tooth wear when:
- It becomes too sensitive.
- It puts the tooth at risk.
- The patient is unhappy with the aesthetics of the tooth, consistent food trap, and sensitivity
Here’s an example of tooth wear treated with fillings.
© Cases by Dr. Gilberte Rechdan
The patient came in with this big surprise. He had twenty Class V composites debonded one after the other over two years during the pandemic. The best treatment course is to treat these Class V with composite fillings and implement lifestyle changes when it comes to his diet, brushing technique and a night guard.
