What Worn-Down Teeth Say About Daily Habits, and How They Can Be Rebuilt

Teeth provide a quiet kind of record of our way of life and, over the years, contain clues relating to stress, diet and even our sleeping habits. If a dentist examines the worn edges or the flattened surfaces, he or she is often able to discover a good deal about people’s daily routines. The good news is that worn teeth can be protected and rebuilt, usually getting both their appearance and comfort back.

Flat Edges and Nighttime Grinding

Teeth that look short, flat or chipped along their edges often point to grinding or clenching, known in dental terms as bruxism. Many people grind during sleep and have no idea until a partner mentions the noise or a dentist spots the wear. Morning jaw tightness and headaches can be other hints.

Scooped Surfaces and Acidic Drinks

Certain teeth have a different appearance; acid erosion may be indicated by smooth, cupped areas on the biting surfaces or by thinning close to the gumline. The regular consumption of soft drinks, sports drinks, citrus fruit and wine can cause the enamel to soften. Reflux, a condition in which stomach acid enters the mouth, can produce a similar effect.

Notches Near the Gums

Small, wedge-shaped notches close to the gumline can be caused by brushing too vigorously, particularly when using a hard brush. Bite force might also be a factor. Since the softer part of the root is then exposed, these areas can become sensitive to cold. It is rather surprising for many people to find out that vigorous brushing, which is intended as a way of protecting the teeth, can in fact gradually cause damage to them.

Why Wear Matters

Worn teeth are a problem that goes beyond being a matter of appearance; as the enamel wears away the softer dentine beneath it wears down more quickly and sensitivity usually increases. When teeth are shortened the height of the bite can be affected and the face may appear a bit older as a result. Taking action early on can slow down these changes to a large extent.

Protecting What Remains

The first thing to do is to deal with the cause since a custom night guard can protect the teeth from grinding. You can reduce tooth erosion by drinking acidic beverages less often and by using a straw. Switching to a soft toothbrush and employing a gentler brushing technique will help prevent any further notching.

Your dentist might also suggest fluoride treatments or certain toothpastes which are designed to strengthen the enamel.

Rebuilding Worn Teeth

Rebuilding can start as soon as the cause is brought under control. Composite bonding can be used to restore length to the edges or to fill in small notches. In the case of more considerable wear, crowns, onlays or veneers can be used to regain both shape and strength. If a number of teeth are affected, a dentist might arrange for a complete rehabilitation, carefully reconstructing the bite to a comfortable height.

Anyone searching for a dentist South Yarra locals recommend for this kind of work should look for experience in bite analysis and staged treatment planning. Rebuilding worn teeth is as much about function as appearance.

Your Teeth Tell a Story

If you’ve noticed that your teeth appear to have become shorter or more sensitive, it’s a good idea to book an appointment. A dentist will be able to examine the pattern of wear, spot the possible causes and offer some suggestions for protecting and restoring your teeth. Making a few changes to your daily routine together with some careful restorative treatment can help your teeth look healthier and mean they’ll last much longer.

Wear occurs gradually, so there is generally enough time to take action. The earlier you read the story, the better ending you will be able to write.