Why Are My Teeth Wearing Down?
Worn teeth are a common problem. It is problem that can cause embarrassment, discomfort, and anxiety, especially when you are in contact with other people, and where you would like to laugh and smile freely.
Unfortunately, many do not realize, at least not early, that they have a problem and a good part think that the enamel will repair itself or do not know that yellowed teeth or a strong dental sensitivity can also be a symptom of their enamel wearing down.
Not only are worn teeth an issue that should be treated for oral health, worn teeth are also a possible alarm bell about the presence of other diseases or problems that should be treated promptly.
Why do teeth wear out?
There are several reasons why teeth wear out:
- esophageal reflux or frequent vomiting, the latter typical of those with eating problems such as anorexia and bulimia;
- consumption of acidic drinks and foods;
- dental malocclusion;
- teeth grinding or bruxism;
- wear from aging;
- use of toothbrushes with too hard bristles;
- use of abrasive toothpastes;
- use of bleaching products or agents;
- drug use.
Of course, the intrinsic nature and genetics of a set of teeth plays an important role: there are individuals more prone to tooth wear and others less so.
Teeth wear out in two different ways: by abrasion and by erosion.
Dental abrasion
Dental abrasion is the result of a mechanical action given by the rubbing of the teeth together or of the teeth with hard materials or with frequent contact with abrasive foods. Incorrect brushing with toothbrushes with hard bristles, but also using too much force when cleaning the teeth, is an action that in the long run abrades the dental enamel and can also cause wear on the collar. Even using teeth with hard materials (for example breaking the shell of a walnut, using the teeth as a vice to rotate the cap of a bottle) is harmful to the enamel (as well as to the entire structure of the tooth).
Dental erosion
Dental erosion consists in the wear of the tooth enamel by acid substances. Frequent intake of particular drinks and foods such as fruit juices, carbonated drinks, and citrus fruits slowly erodes the dental surface. Gastroesophageal reflux and vomiting are highly acidic and, in contact with the teeth, cause a sudden deterioration. Those suffering from hiatal hernia or reflux must be particularly careful and consult their doctor to stop a situation that could become serious not only aesthetically. Similarly, those suffering from eating disorders, such as bulimia and anorexia, often have a very complex dental situation which therefore becomes an alarm bell for a very dangerous and delicate disease.
Symptoms of worn teeth- what signs do we need to pay particular attention to?
People with dental erosion and abrasion usually have some of these symptoms:
- teeth appear yellowed or duller than usual;
- the teeth have a rounded or serrated edge, more damaged and appear shorter than normal;
- teeth appear thinner than usual;
- small cracks are visible, especially on the edges;
- the enamel appears more transparent;
- there is an insistent dental sensitivity.
If you have any of these symptoms, it is recommended that you talk to your dentist about this issues at your next visit.