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Dental Erosion I frequently see patients that have excessive gum recession and notching of the root surfaces. In the past, this was attributed to aggressive tooth brushing. New research now attributes this phenomenon to chewing forces improperly directed on the tooth. This condition is termed abfraction. The treatment includes repairing the worn area with composite restorative material, and adjusting the torquing forces on the involved tooth by selective grinding of the high spots. It may also be necessary to wear a night guard if tooth grinding is occurring during sleep. The condition is complicated in that many factors may combine with abfraction to accelerate cervical tooth loss. They include aggressive tooth brushing, and plaque accumulation. Fortunately today we have a better understanding of some of the destructive forces that effect the teeth. Each situation must be judged separately to apply the appropriate treatment. Our new understanding allows us to begin to prevent tooth wear instead of repairing the later damage. John
V. Reitz, D.D.S., F.A.G.D. Copyright
2008. All rights reserved. |
