The process of teeth gradually wearing down over time as a result of regular chewing and grinding is known as teeth attrition. As teeth come into touch with one another while speaking, chewing, and grinding, a natural wear process takes place. As opposed to dental abrasion, which is brought on by outside variables like vigorous brushing or abrasive toothpaste, teeth attrition is a by-product of regular tooth function.
Teeth Attrition Causes:
- Chewing: When food is gnawed on, teeth come into touch with one another and eventually wear down.
- Grinding and Clenching: Those who grind or clench their teeth may suffer from faster tooth attrition. Bruxism usually happens while you're stressed out or sleeping.
- Malocclusion: Uneven force distribution while chewing may result in localized attrition if teeth are misplaced, crooked, or bite incorrectly.
- Impact of Attrition on Teeth:
- Worn Enamel: Over time, the enamel, which covers the teeth's outermost layer, may erode and reveal the dentin below. Increased sensitivity and perhaps aesthetic issues may result from this.
- Modified Bite: An excessive amount of wear and tear may cause alterations to the occlusion, or fit, of your teeth. Your jaw alignment and bite may be impacted by this.
- Tooth Sensitivity: When enamel is worn down, the dentin is exposed. This may make teeth more sensitive to changes in temperature and certain foods.
- Increased Cavity Risk: Because worn enamel offers less defense against acids and bacteria, it is more prone to cavities.
Preventive and Therapeutic Measures:
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night or during stressful times, a night guard may stop excessive wear and tear on your teeth.
- Handle Stress: Using stress-reduction strategies helps lessen clenching and grinding of the teeth.
- Taking Care of Malocclusion: To enhance the distribution of forces when chewing and fix misaligned teeth or bite problems, see an orthodontist.
- Frequent dental examinations: During routine dental checkups, your dentist can keep an eye on the state of your teeth, spot attrition, and recommend preventative care.
- Treatment with Fluoride: On worn surfaces, fluoride may help strengthen enamel and lower the incidence of cavities.
Although teeth attrition is a normal process that happens over time, its effects may be controlled with routine dental care and preventative measures. See your dentist for guidance on the best course of action and teeth-protection tactics if you're worried about tooth wear, sensitivity, bite changes, or other issues.