The most common cause of tooth wear is tooth-to-tooth contact. this can happen when you bite or chew hard foods, or when you grind your teeth at night. other causes of tooth wear include:
Acid erosion: this happens when your teeth are exposed to acidic drinks or foods. over time, the acid will eat away at your tooth enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to tooth decay.
Gum disease: gum disease can cause your gums to recede, exposing more of your tooth enamel to tooth-to-tooth contact.
Clenching or grinding: if you clench or grind your teeth, you can put extra stress on your tooth enamel, which can lead to tooth wear.
Tooth wear is often painless in the early stages. however, as tooth wear progresses, you may experience increased sensitivity, tooth pain, and tooth decay. if you think you may be experiencing tooth wear, it’s important to see a dentist so they can diagnose and treat the issue.
There are several treatments available for tooth wear. treatment will depend on the severity of your tooth wear and the underlying cause. in mild cases, your dentist may recommend tooth bleaching or tooth bonding. in more severe cases, your dentist may recommend tooth veneers, tooth crowns, or tooth implants.
Preventing tooth wear is the best way to protect your teeth. you can help prevent tooth wear by:
Avoiding acidic drinks and foods: try to limit your exposure to acidic drinks and foods, such as soda, citrus fruits, and vinegar. if you do consume acidic drinks or foods, rinse your mouth with water afterward.
Not grinding your teeth: if you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about getting a mouth guard.
Practicing good oral hygiene: brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Avoiding tobacco: tobacco use can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. if you use tobacco, talk to your dentist about ways to quit.