What Are the Signs of Tooth Abrasion & Can It Be Treated?
We all know how important it is to look after our teeth, and most of us have had this drilled into us from childhood. But some wear and tear is inevitable, and when it comes to tooth abrasion, it can even be caused by being a little too overzealous in our brushing routine.
Tooth abrasion occurs when the surface of the tooth becomes damaged. Brushing too hard can cause this damage, but there are other potential causes, most of which can be avoided.
Causes and Symptoms of Tooth Abrasion
Tooth abrasion occurs when the outer enamel surface of the tooth is worn away due to external forces. Brushing too hard is one of the most commonly mentioned causes of tooth abrasion, but other causes include bruxism (grinding your teeth), biting your nails or using your teeth to open packages or cut sticking tape.
The most common symptom is the formation of a slight ridge on the tooth’s surface. You might also notice some slight discolouration where the enamel has worn away. Another common symptom is sensitivity to hot or cold food and drinks.
Treating Tooth Abrasion
As is the case with so many dental conditions, prevention is better than cure. You can avoid dental abrasion by using a soft toothbrush and applying the correct brushing technique – if you are unsure how, your dentist can offer guidance and advice here.
There are treatment options for tooth abrasion. This usually involves applying special bonding compounds to protect the tooth and prevent further damage. You might also need fillings or veneers to add further protection and improve the tooth’s aesthetics.
The first step is to book a consultation with your dentist to assess the severity of the damage and what is causing it. Then, treatment options can be discussed, and a plan can be agreed upon.
Tooth abrasion is one of the many common dental issues we treat here at Brighton Dental Suite.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Are your teeth starting to appear larger? Do you notice that they are starting to appear ‘worn’—perhaps you might be causing them to abrade? Contact us today to arrange a consultation. We’re providers with Medibank, HCF, and MDF. You can claim your health fund rebate on the spot with our HICAPS machine.
* Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.
Common Questions Related to Tooth Abrasion
What Does Tooth Abrasion Feel Like?
If you can feel a rough ridge in your teeth, can see discolouration, or have pain or sensitivity in your teeth, these are all signs of tooth abrasion.
Can You Fix Tooth Abrasion?
Yes, there are various possible treatments for tooth abrasion. These depend on the nature and severity of the damage, and are likely to include different treatments to improve the appearance of the tooth and to reduce the sensitivity.
Is Tooth Abrasion Permanent?
Left untreated, tooth abrasion can lead to permanent damage. This is why it is important to seek advice and treatment from your dentist as soon as you notice any symptoms.
Can I Resolve Tooth Abrasion at Home
No, there are no home cures for tooth abrasion, and you will need treatment from your dentist. There are, however, preventative steps that you can take to reduce the likelihood of tooth abrasion. These include using the correct brushing technique and avoiding bad habits such as biting nails or grinding teeth.