River Walk Dental Orthodontics

1431 Palo Alto Rd, Suite 104, San Antonio, TX 78211

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What are the Options to fix Worn Teeth

Despite their strength, durability, and toughness, teeth are not indestructible. Over time, they can become worn down due to age, diet, and grinding or clenching. It may also affect the appearance of our smile if our teeth become worn, which can make them more vulnerable to damage and decay.

Fortunately, several options are available to fix worn-down teeth and restore their strength and beauty, so if you want to know more about the same, keep reading!

What are the causes of worn teeth?

Before jumping onto the treatment options, let us first see what the causes of a worn-down tooth are:

  1. Age: Over time, teeth can naturally become worn down due to acid exposure, years of use, and other factors.
  2. Grinding and Clenching: Grinding and clenching your teeth during sleep can cause abnormal wear and tear of the tooth.
  3. Acidic Foods and Beverages: Foods and beverages that contain a high amount of acid can erode tooth enamel over time, thus causing teeth to wear down.
  4. Tooth Decay: Untreated cavities can weaken the tooth structure, causing them to become worn down and more susceptible to further damage.
  5. Bruxism: Bruxism is when a person grinds, gnashes, or clenches their teeth. It can occur during the day or while sleeping.
  6. Gum Disease: As a result of gum disease, the gums recede, exposing the roots of the teeth. It can lead to increased sensitivity and poor tooth condition.
  7. Trauma: Trauma, such as an accident or injury, can cause your tooth to become worn down or chipped.

Identifying the underlying cause of worn-down teeth is essential to prevent further damage and restore them to their natural state. A dentist can examine your overall dental health and recommend the best course of treatment based on the cause and severity of the wear and tear.

What are the treatment options for worn teeth?

Some of the common treatment options are listed below: 

Dental Bonding

In order to fix worn teeth, dental bonding is a popular option. The teeth’ shape, size, and color are restored with the tooth-colored resin’s application. Dental bonding is a relatively simple and inexpensive procedure that can be completed in just one dentist visit. It can fix many dental issues, including chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration. The resin used in dental bonding is solid and durable and can be matched to the color of the surrounding tooth for a seamless and natural-looking result.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are another option. The purpose of veneers is to improve the appearance of teeth by covering them with thin shells of porcelain or composite resin. Veneers can be used to fix various dental issues, including stains, chips, and gaps. They can be customized to match the color and shape of the surrounding tooth. The material is also strong and durable, meaning it can last long with proper care. However, veneers have several drawbacks, including the higher cost and the need for more preparation before the actual treatment.

Dental Crowns

The use of dental crowns is another option for restoring worn teeth. Dental crowns cover the entire tooth in a custom-made cap that restores its shape, size, and strength. Various materials can be used to make crowns, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, and combinations of materials. Crowns are one of the popular options and can provide a strong and durable solution that can last for over ten years with proper care. However, the process of bonding or veneering is less invasive than crowns and requires less preparation of the teeth.

Lastly, if you are confused about which treatment is best for you, you must consult your dentist for proper advice, and he will guide you through the entire process.