Dental attrition is the gradual wearing down of tooth enamel and surfaces, especially on biting areas, due to chewing or grinding. This occurs from tooth-to-tooth contact during normal or abnormal functions. It results in loss of tooth structure over time.
What are the Causes of Attrition of Teeth
Attrition of teeth can happen because of different factors. Some of the causes are:
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding):
Routine teeth crushing can lead to tooth attrition.
Abrasive Habits:
Chewing on hard things, for example, fingernails, ice, or pen caps, as well as involving teeth as a tool for opening items, can add to sped-up tooth attrition and steady loss.
Medical Conditions:
Some medical conditions like eating disorders, gastroesophageal reflux infection (GERD), or dry mouth (xerostomia) can be a cause of tooth attrition.
Malocclusion:
Misalignment of the teeth, bite, and jaw can make abnormal teeth experience contact and rubbing during chewing. This can make confined areas of attrition where the teeth rub against one another unevenly.
Signs of Tooth Attrition
Here are some common signs to look out for:
- Difficulty in Chewing or Biting.
- Increased Tooth Wear on Dental X-rays.
- Visible Cracks or Chips.
- Increased Tooth Sensitivity.
- Notching at the Gum line.
- The flattening of the biting surfaces of the teeth.
- Shortened Teeth.
- Jaw Pain or Muscle Tension.
- Changes in Tooth Shape
Tooth Attrition Treatment Options
Treatment options for tooth attrition depend on the seriousness of the condition and the underlying causes. Here are some common treatment options:
Dental Restorations:
Crowns, decorates or on lays, and fillings, can be used to fix harmed teeth caused by attrition. They cover the whole tooth surface, giving strength and assurance, while decorating or on lays save more normal tooth structure than traditional fillings.
Orthodontic Treatment:
Orthodontic mediations, including supports or aligners, might be prescribed to address misalignment issues adding to tooth steady loss.
Appropriately adjusting the teeth disperses chewing powers equally, decreasing wear and tear of the specific teeth.
Night Guards or Occlusal braces:
Custom-fitted night guards or occlusal braces are worn to protect teeth during sleep from the impacts of bruxism (teeth crushing). These gadgets make a barrier between the upper and lower teeth, limiting rubbing and forestalling further attrition.
Removable Partial Dentures:
Removable partial dentures are also a viable treatment choice for tooth attrition by replacing missing teeth, reestablishing impediments, and working on oral capability.
These treatment options can be customized to individual cases and necessities, depending upon variables, for example, the degree of tooth wear, patient inclinations, and fundamental oral medical issue.
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