Wear and Erosion Management
South West Rocks Family Dental has been proudly serving the South West Rocks and Kempsey Shire for over 30 years.
Wear and Erosion Management
Tooth wear and erosion can occur due to a variety of factors, including grinding or clenching the teeth, acid erosion from acidic foods and beverages, and certain medical conditions. At South West Rocks Dental, we prioritise what we see now and what we see the future holds for your mouth. Managing wear and erosion early is critical to saving your oral health from decline and saving you a lot of money in potential treatment.
Wear and erosion are slow, insidious oral conditions. Many of us have some evidence of this, but there are a few signs that can flag serious trouble ahead. Wear is the impact of teeth on tooth grinding. Erosion is the impact of acid removing tooth surface structure. Combine the two and it’s a recipe for dentures.
Tooth wear and erosion can be caused by a variety of factors, including grinding or clenching the teeth, acid erosion from acidic foods and beverages, and certain medical conditions.
The goal of wear and erosion management is to prevent further damage to the teeth and restore the tooth structure that has been lost. The treatment approach may involve a combination of procedures, depending on the severity of the tooth wear and erosion. These procedures can include a splint to protect your teeth, diet advice and toothpaste recommendations, all the way to white fillings, dental crowns, dental veneers, and even orthodontic treatment.
The first step in wear and erosion management is to identify the cause of the tooth wear and erosion. Once the cause has been identified, a treatment plan will be developed that addresses the underlying problem and restores the tooth structure that has been lost.
The exact treatment plan will depend on the severity of the tooth wear and erosion. For mild cases, dental bonding or dental veneers may be used to restore the damaged tooth structure. For more severe cases, dental crowns may be necessary to restore the tooth’s function and appearance. Orthodontic treatment may also be recommended to address bite issues that contribute to tooth wear and erosion. Or perhaps it is just a splint (“night guard”) and some diet advice.
It is important to address tooth wear and erosion as soon as possible, as it can lead to sensitivity, pain, and damage to the tooth structure. Patients who are experiencing tooth wear and erosion should consult with a qualified dentist or dental specialist to determine the best treatment approach for their individual needs. With proper management and treatment, tooth wear and erosion can be effectively addressed and the health and function of the teeth can be restored.
Pros of treatment:
Prevents further damage: Wear and erosion management can prevent further damage to the teeth by identifying the underlying cause of tooth wear and erosion and addressing it with appropriate treatment.
Restores tooth structure: Wear and erosion management can restore lost tooth structure through the use of procedures such as dental bonding, dental crowns, and dental veneers.
Improves appearance: Wear and erosion management can improve the appearance of the teeth, which can boost a patient’s self-confidence and improve their quality of life.
Prevents sensitivity and pain: Wear and erosion management can prevent tooth sensitivity and pain that can result from tooth wear and erosion.
Cons of treatment:
Cost: Wear and erosion management can be expensive, depending on the severity of the tooth wear and erosion and the required treatment.
Multiple procedures: Wear and erosion management may require multiple procedures, which can be time-consuming and require several appointments.
Maintenance: After wear and erosion management procedures, patients may need to follow a maintenance plan to prevent further tooth wear and erosion.
Sensitivity: Some wear and erosion management procedures, such as dental bonding and dental veneers, may cause temporary tooth sensitivity.
Limited durability: Some wear and erosion management procedures, such as fillings, may have a limited durability and may need to be replaced over time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wear and Erosion Management
Tooth wear and erosion can be caused by a variety of factors, including grinding or clenching the teeth, acid erosion from acidic foods and beverages, and certain medical conditions.
Tooth wear and erosion are typically diagnosed through a dental examination, often with photos or a digital scan to monitor wear and erosion over time. We may also ask you about your dental history and any symptoms you may be experiencing.
The treatment options for tooth wear and erosion depend on the severity of the condition. They may include simple advice, a splint, fillings, dental crowns, dental veneers, and orthodontic treatment. The exact treatment plan will depend on the individual needs of each patient.
Wear and erosion is a slow process, but just like watching your kids grow up, it happens whether you’re ready or not! Doing nothing can lead to more serious function and aesthetic impacts including loss of teeth for some. Generally, addressing tooth wear and erosion sooner is better and cheaper than later.
The length of wear and erosion management treatment depends on the severity of the tooth wear and erosion and the treatment plan. Some procedures, such as dental bonding, can be completed in a single visit, while others, such as dental crowns, may require multiple visits.
Yes, wear and erosion management can prevent future tooth wear and erosion by addressing the underlying causes and providing appropriate treatment. Following a maintenance plan and practicing good oral hygiene can also help prevent future tooth wear and erosion.
Request a Consult
Crown vs Filling after Root Canal
