Dental abrasion is the loss of tooth structure due to mechanical forces.

This can happen from a number of factors, including:

• Toothbrushing too hard: Brushing your teeth too hard can wear away the enamel on your teeth.
• Using a hard-bristled toothbrush: Using a hard-bristled toothbrush can also wear away the enamel on your teeth.
• Chewing ice: Chewing ice can also wear away the enamel on your teeth.
• Grunting or clenching your teeth: Grinding or clenching your teeth can put pressure on your teeth and wear away the enamel.
• Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can increase your risk of developing dental abrasion.

Dental abrasion can cause a number of problems, including:

• Sensitivity: Teeth that have been abraded can become sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, and sour foods and drinks.
• Discoloration: Teeth that have been abraded can become discolored.
• Breakage: Teeth that have been abraded can become more likely to break or chip.

If you think you may have dental abrasion, it is important to come in for an appointment at Jonathan C. Wang, DDS Inc. Dr. Jonathan Wang can diagnose the condition and recommend treatment options.

Treatment for dental abrasion may include:

• Remineralization: Remineralization is a process that helps to rebuild the enamel on your teeth. This can be done with fluoride treatments or toothpaste.
• Fillings: If the abrasion is severe, your dentist may need to fill the affected teeth.
• Crowns: In some cases, your dentist may need to crown the affected teeth if they have a significant fracture. 

By following these tips, you can help to prevent dental abrasion:

• Brush your teeth gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush for two minutes, twice a day.
• Floss your teeth daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.
• Avoid chewing ice: Chewing ice can wear away the enamel on your teeth.
• If you have GERD, take steps to manage your condition. This may include taking medication, eating smaller meals more often, and avoiding foods that trigger your symptoms.
• If you grind or clench your teeth, see your dentist about getting a nightguard. A nightguard is a device that is worn over your teeth at night to protect them from damage.
• Dr. Jonathan Wang can check for signs of dental abrasion and recommend treatment options if necessary at dental checkups.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your teeth healthy and prevent dental abrasion.