Definition

Dental abrasion is a condition characterized by the abnormal erosion of hard tooth tissue. This disease is caused by excessive and continuous tooth friction. Excessive brushing is the main cause, although several factors may contribute to tooth abrasion.

Dental abrasion might reach the deeper layers, specifically the dentin, and impact the outer surface of the enamel. When dental abrasion comes into contact with the inner layer of the tooth (open-tooth dentin), it may lead to dental sensitivity.

Causes

The main cause of dental abrasion is repetitive contact between the dental surface and an outside object or substance. The acidic pH in the oral cavity causes erosive action, which speeds up the dental abrasion process.

In addition to improper tooth brushing, tooth-picking can lead to tooth abrasion and increase the risk of gingival disorders.

The following factors contribute to dental abrasion problems:

• Using tobacco or toothpicks
• Mouth, lip, or tongue-piercing
• Applying toothpaste containing abrasive substances like emery and corundum
• The toothbrush is being used in a horizontal position and with excessive force.
• Misaligned dental retainers that do not conform to the contour of the jaw
• Misaligned dentures
• Habit of biting nails
• Chewing tobacco or toothpicks
• Bad habits like chewing betel leaves, biting pencils, or opening bottle lids with teeth
• Frequent foreign item or substance contact with the teeth.
• Bruxism, often known as teeth-grinding

Risk factor

The risk factors associated with tooth abrasion are as follows:

1. Dietary modifications
2. Improve dental hygiene
3. Stop biting habits.

Symptoms

• A small, acute v-shaped depression is visible at the tooth's neck near the gums.
• Hypersensitivity to the teeth, which includes mouth pain and tenderness, is the cause of extreme pain. Pain may result from consuming food or beverages that are excessively chilled or hot. Wind passing over one's teeth can result in inflammation and pain.

Diagnosis

Abrasion of the tooth can be diagnosed via anamnesis (medical interview), physical examination, and additional examinations.

Anamnesis

Doctors will inquire about the following:

• Current symptoms
• Prior medical history
• Family disease history
• Dietary habits

While dentin hypersensitivity pain is moderate in chronic cases, it can produce terrible pain in acute ones.

Physical Examinations

Visual inspection and condition can be used to physically examine teeth in abrasion cases and analyze the pattern of wear or cavities that have formed. Observing wear patterns on the tooth's surface can reveal the presence and cause of abrasion lesions.

Additional Examinations

Further diagnostic testing is unnecessary for cases of tooth abrasion without symptoms. If you suspect abrasion or erosion lesions are getting close to or touching the tooth pulp, a radiograph or other supporting examination might be performed.

Bitewing radiographs may also be used to assess the presence of interdental abrasion lesions. Furthermore, capturing images, producing physical dental models, or digitally documenting the tooth shape is important to ensure precise monitoring of tooth wear progression.

Management

Abrasion treatment involves the restoration of the affected tooth surface.

There are two methods to accomplish this task: fabricating a dental crown or performing a filling. This refers to the specific area of the tooth surface undergoing wear and tear.

• The installation of a dental crown is a two-step process. Initially, the dentist does a dental radiographic examination to assess the state of the bones surrounding the tooth's root and crown. The doctor delivers anesthesia, constructs a tooth framework, and affixes a dental crown. This temporary crown safeguards the tooth while the permanent crown is being created. The following phase will be completed during the subsequent session. The dentist substitutes the provisional dental crown with a lasting crown.
• Dental fillings treat dental abrasions at the neck of the tooth. The filling technique is typically performed using resin material, specifically dental fillings that match the color of the teeth.

Complications

Dentin hypersensitivity and pulpitis are the most prevalent complications associated with dental abrasion. If left untreated, dental abrasion can lead to the development of caries, pulpitis, gingivitis, or even a combination of these conditions.

Prevention

You can avoid dental abrasion by:

• Eliminating Bad Habits

Bad habits, such as biting with toothpicks, pencils, and nails, may damage teeth. Therefore, to avoid tooth abrasion, eliminate this harmful behavior.

• Maintain oral hygiene.

Good oral hygiene can prevent tooth abrasion. To preserve oral hygiene, brush your teeth twice a day. Use a gentle toothbrush and prevent overbrushing. Use safe toothpaste. Sensitive teeth require a specific toothpaste.

Tooth wear can be prevented by proper tooth brushing. The proper way to wash your teeth:

• • Angle the toothbrush 45 degrees toward the gums.
  • Slowly move the toothbrush.
  • Brush the exterior, inner, and occlusal surfaces of the teeth.
  • Brush your tongue.
  • Use a special brush or dental floss to clean between hard-to-clean teeth.
• Types of Food

Lifestyle and nutrition changes can reduce tooth abrasion. The calcium and phosphate in milk and unsweetened yogurt also protect against tooth abrasion.

When to see a doctor?

If you have tooth abrasion symptoms, consult a dentist immediately. Periodic dental exams are used to track lesion progression by severity. Routine control can be performed every 6 months if the lesion is not worsening.

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