Your teeth are designed to withstand considerable forces when you bite and chew. While this function is not something we tend to think about consciously, we expose our teeth to friction on a frequent basis, which can eventually lead to problems with wear and tear. Typically, the effects of wear and tear can cause little change to a person’s appearance, though the issue can accumulate over many years. However, you may notice a change happening at an unexpected rate. This can be due to problems with naturally weaker enamel, or a habit of chewing on hard surfaces. However, it should be noted that it is also a sign that you are struggling with bruxism. At our Houston, TX dental practice, we can provide important support for bruxism, and we can help you do something about visible wear and tear on your teeth.
Wear And Tear Can Make Unwelcome Changes To Your Appearance
If wear and tear starts to attract unwanted notice, the problem can start to make you self-conscious about your appearance. When this occurs, you may feel that your smile looks less symmetrical, or that your teeth look unhealthy. Over time, more significant chips in teeth can further alter their shape.
Dealing With Problems That Cause Wear And Tear To Accumulate
If you tend to idly chew on ice cubes, or if you like to gnaw on pen caps, you create pressure on your teeth that can lead to real consequences. This habit of biting and chewing hard surfaces is definitely something you should break, but you should know that it is not the only issue that can speed up the effects of wear and tear. You may notice these changes because of bruxism, a habit of grinding your teeth. Bruxism may occur because you have uncorrected bite problems, it can be stress-related, or it may be connected to TMJ dysfunction. A special appliance can be crafted at our practice to keep your teeth safe from grinding while you sleep, which is when the issue tends to happen.
Finding The Right Approach To Restoring Your Smile
What kind of treatment is best when dealing with dental wear and tear? That answer can depend on how much harm your teeth have experienced. If you need to do something about damage that is purely cosmetic, your dentist may recommend dental bonding work to reshape certain teeth. If the damage is serious enough to interfere with your dental health, dental crowns can provide protection while also helping to improve your appearance.
Discuss Treatment For Dental Wear And Tear At Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry
At Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry, you can find out how to manage problems like bruxism, which lead to issues with dental wear and tear. We can also help you take care of your smile with cosmetic and restorative services. To find out more, please call our dental office in Houston, TX, today at (281) 974-4494.
