If your teeth are showing signs of wear and tear, it could be more than just aging. Dental abrasion, or tooth abrasion, is a common issue that many people don’t know much about until it’s too late. It’s a gradual process, but when left unchecked, it can lead to discomfort, weakened teeth, and even long-term dental problems.
So, what is dental abrasion, and how can you avoid it? Here’s everything you need to know to keep your smile healthy and strong.
What Is Dental Abrasion?
Dental abrasion refers to the loss of tooth enamel caused by repeated physical wear. Unlike tooth erosion, which is caused by acid, abrasion occurs when something physically rubs against your teeth. Over time, this friction wears down the enamel, the hard outer layer that protects your teeth.
Abrasion in dentistry often occurs near the gum line. This is because the enamel is thinnest in that area, making it particularly vulnerable to damage.
What Causes Dental Abrasion?
Several habits and factors can lead to tooth abrasion. The most common causes include:
- Brushing Too Hard: Vigorous brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel.
- Poor Technique: Brushing horizontally instead of gently in small circles increases wear.
- Abrasive Toothpaste: Some whitening toothpastes contain harsh particles that speed up enamel loss.
- Using Your Teeth as Tools: Opening packages with your teeth or biting hard objects can damage enamel.
- Oral Appliances: Ill-fitting retainers or dentures, or even tongue piercings, can rub against teeth and cause damage.
- Habitual Behaviours: Chewing on pens, biting nails, or holding items between your teeth can contribute to abrasion.
By recognizing these causes and taking steps to quit bad habits, you can protect your enamel and avoid unnecessary damage.
Symptoms Of Tooth Abrasion
You might not notice dental abrasion right away. It develops gradually, and the symptoms will become more obvious as the enamel wears down. Here’s what to look for:
- Sensitivity: Do you feel sharp pain or discomfort when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods? Losing enamel exposes the sensitive dentin underneath.
- Visible Notches: Shallow grooves or indentations near the gum line often indicate abrasion.
- Discolouration: Teeth may appear darker as the protective enamel layer thins out.
- Weakened Teeth: Over time, enamel loss can cause teeth to chip or fracture more easily.
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s a good idea to visit your dentist for an evaluation.
Is Dental Abrasion Serious?
The short answer is yes; dental abrasion can become serious if it’s ignored. Your enamel doesn’t grow back, so once it’s gone, the damage is permanent. Without enamel, your teeth lose their defence against sensitivity, cavities, and decay.
While mild abrasion may not seem like a big deal, advanced cases can lead to more significant issues. Untreated tooth abrasion may require fillings, crowns, or even root canals to restore and protect the tooth.
Can You Reverse Tooth Abrasion?
Unfortunately, dental abrasion cannot be reversed. Once enamel is lost, it cannot regenerate. That’s why prevention is key. However, early intervention can slow down the progression and protect your teeth from further damage.
Your dentist can recommend treatments like:
- Bonding: Applying a tooth-coloured resin to cover worn areas.
- Fluoride Treatments: Strengthening the remaining enamel to reduce sensitivity.
- Dental Fillings: Repairing deep grooves or exposed areas to prevent further wear.
Addressing the issue early can help you maintain your dental health and avoid more invasive treatments later on.
How To Prevent Dental Abrasion
Preventing tooth abrasion comes down to adopting the right habits and being gentle with your teeth. Here are some practical tips to keep your enamel intact:
- Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: Replace your hard or medium-bristled toothbrush with a soft one.
- Brush Properly: Use gentle circular motions instead of scrubbing back and forth. Let the brush do the work, not your arm.
- Choose a Non-Abrasive Toothpaste: Look for toothpaste labelled “gentle” or “low abrasion.” Avoid overly gritty whitening pastes.
- Skip Bad Habits: Stop biting your nails, chewing on pens, or using your teeth to open bottles or packages.
- Limit Hard Foods: Avoid chewing ice cubes or biting into very hard snacks.
- Use Proper Tools: When you need to open something, grab a pair of scissors instead of using your teeth.
Your dentist can also guide you on the best brushing technique or suggest specific oral care products to help prevent further abrasion.
How Do You Know If You Have Dental Abrasion?
If you’re experiencing tooth sensitivity or noticing visible grooves near your gums, it’s worth getting checked. A professional dental exam will confirm if abrasion is the issue and how advanced it is.
Regular check-ups are essential because they help identify early signs of dental abrasion before it progresses. Your dentist may also take X-rays to evaluate the damage beneath the surface.
Protect Your Smile For The Long-Term
Dental abrasion is more common than you might think, but it doesn’t have to be part of your future. Don’t wait until discomfort turns into a bigger problem. If you think you may have tooth abrasion, it’s time to act.
By adopting healthy habits and being mindful of how you care for your teeth, you can keep your enamel strong and your smile beautiful.
Ready To Take Action?
Protecting your smile starts with a visit to the dentist. Give us a call at 416-232-2033 or request an appointment by clicking here.