Three Causes of Tooth Wear

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The teeth in your smile are very tough and are meant to last a lifetime, but many lifestyle factors can wear down and weaken your teeth. Our dentist and team wish to discuss three causes of tooth wear that don’t involve dental trauma or tooth decay.

Worn teeth are often the result of tooth grinding or clenching, which can result in small cracks in the tooth enamel and an increased risk of tooth decay. You may also experience facial pain, headaches, and jaw damage. If you suffer from tooth grinding, there are treatments you can try, such as working on reducing stress or receiving a mouth guard or splint from the dentist.

The erosion of tooth enamel caused by acid can also wear down teeth. Loss of tooth enamel is more likely if you frequently enjoy alcohol, fruit juices, or carbonated drinks. Additionally, women who are pregnant may have more acid on their teeth than normal as a result of acid reflux. You could also be suffering a medical condition that causes acid reflux. Our dentist can offer you customized advice to address these concerns.

Finally, abrasion can be a cause of tooth wear, especially if you are incorrectly brushing your teeth. Brushing too hard can result in damage to the tooth enamel. Brush your teeth in gentle, circular motions using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.

To learn more about preventing tooth wear in Houston, Texas, contact Miller Family Dental at 281.225.4966 today and schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Miller and our team.