Worn teeth are a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including teeth grinding, clenching, misaligned bite, and TMD/TMJ disorder.
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a condition in which the upper and lower teeth rub together excessively. This can happen during sleep (sleep bruxism) or while awake (awake bruxism). Teeth grinding can wear down the enamel, expose the dentin, and even cause the teeth to chip or crack.
A misaligned bite is another common cause of worn teeth. When the teeth do not fit together properly, it can put extra pressure on certain teeth, causing them to wear down over time.
TMD/TMJ disorder is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. TMD can cause pain, clicking, and popping in the jaw, as well as headaches, facial pain, and difficulty chewing. TMD can also lead to worn teeth.
If you have worn teeth, it is important to see a dentist to determine the cause of the problem and get treatment. Treatment for worn teeth may include:
- Nightguard: A nightguard is a custom-made appliance that fits over the teeth and protects them from grinding.
- Veneers: Veneers are thin shells that are bonded to the front of the teeth to improve their appearance and protect them from further wear.
- Crowns: Crowns are caps that are placed over the teeth to restore their shape and function.
- Root canal therapy: If the tooth is severely damaged, root canal therapy may be necessary to save it.
By treating the underlying cause of worn teeth, you can prevent further damage and improve your oral health.
Here are some additional tips for preventing worn teeth:
- See a dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects, such as ice or pens.
- Get regular massages to relieve stress.
- Manage anxiety and stress.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your teeth healthy and prevent them from wearing down.
Here are some frequently asked questions about worn teeth:
- How can I ‘build up’ my worn-down front teeth?
If your front teeth are worn down, your dentist may recommend dental crowns to protect them from further damage. Dental crowns are caps that are placed over the teeth to restore their shape and function.
- How do worn-out teeth appear?
Worn-out teeth may appear shorter, flatter, and more translucent than healthy teeth. They may also have a yellowish tint.
- What happens when my teeth deteriorate?
Too much tooth wear can cause the dentin layer (the layer right beneath the hard outer enamel layer of teeth) to wear away. Teeth worn down to the dentin are more sensitive and may cause pain when eating or drinking. They will also be less durable and more prone to deterioration.
If you have concerns about worn teeth, please see your dentist for an evaluation. According to Dr. Sbenati, as your teeth become short, they start growing bones in areas you donât want to grow. You will start looking bad and developing pockets in areas you didnât have. So, you will start developing food trapsâ start getting more bacteria that are stuck in those areas; you become more susceptible to periodontitis and even cavities. All because you’re grinding your teeth, and your entire bone structure changes.
 If you have these teeth, we recommend you book your dental consultation with us. [https://calendly.com/sbenatidentistry/cosmeticdentalconsult]
