THE tooth structure is composed of the hardest tissue in the human body even stronger than the bone.
Its durability allows us to chew, speak and smile with confidence.
Yet, like all things, they have their limits.
Over time, even the toughest materials wear down and teeth are no exception.
On average, every person loses about 0,02 to 0,04 millimetres of tooth structure per year due to normal use.
This natural process is called physiological wear and it’s an inevitable part of aging.
By the time someone reaches 70 years old, they may have lost up to 2,8 millimetres of their teeth.
Considering that for healthy young adults, the visible part of the tooth known as the crown is usually between 7,5 and 9,5 millimetres long, after decades of use, only about 6,7 millimetres may remain.
- Lukaku becomes the most expensive player ever
- Lukaku becomes the most expensive player ever
- Ukraine's Zelenskiy warns Europeans to brace for bleak winter
- Ben Stiller and Sean Penn latest Americans banned from Russia
Keep Reading
However, tooth wear is becoming a growing concern currently, with studies showing that 80% of children and 43% of adults experience excessive tooth loss.
The question is, why is this happening?
The answer lies in two major causes of mechanical tooth damage: attrition and abrasion.
Unlike cavities, which are caused by bacteria and sugar, these forms of damage result from physical forces wearing teeth down over time.
Understanding these processes is key to protecting the ivories that both adorn and serve our mouths.
Attrition is the gradual loss of tooth structure from tooth-to-tooth contact.
Some degree of wear is normal and expected but when grinding becomes excessive, it turns into a pathological problem.
Many cases of severe attrition stem from parafunctional habits, unusual mouth movements that go beyond normal functions like chewing and speaking.
These habits can be triggered by various factors, including stress and anxiety.
Teeth grinding, medically known as bruxism, often happens unconsciously, especially during sleep.
People who clench or grind their teeth may wake up with sore jaws or frequent headaches without realising the cause.
Most of them take painkillers to soothe the pain, but the problem is not resolved.
Certain professions also contribute to these habits.
For example, hairdressers who hold pins between their teeth or tailors who bite thread, unknowingly accelerating tooth wear.
Additionally, medical conditions such as neurological disorders like epilepsy can cause involuntary jaw clenching, further damaging teeth over time.
The consequences of untreated attrition can be significant.
One noticeable effect is facial ageing.
As teeth wear down, they shorten the vertical height of the face, making a person appear older than they are.
Beyond aesthetics, excessive tooth wear can lead to muscle and joint pain.
The jaw muscles become overworked, resulting in discomfort, headaches and even difficulty opening the mouth fully.
Another common issue is tooth sensitivity.
As the protective enamel layer wears away, the underlying dentin becomes exposed.
This can cause acute pain when consuming hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks, making eating an uncomfortable experience.
Abrasion, on the other hand, is different from attrition.
While attrition involves tooth-to-tooth contact, abrasion is caused by external friction.
One of the most common causes of abrasion is over-brushing.
Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or scrubbing too vigorously can wear down the enamel over time, especially near the gum line.
Some toothpaste brands, particularly those marketed for whitening, contain abrasive particles that can accelerate this process.
Another contributory factor is the habit of using teeth as tools, for instance when biting nails, opening bottles or chewing on pens.
While this may seem harmless, these actions create small amounts of wear that accumulate over years.
Unlike cavities, which can be treated with fillings, the damage from abrasion is permanent.
Once the enamel deteriorates, it does not regenerate, leaving dental restoration as the only solution.
Given that worn teeth cannot heal on their own, dentists must intervene to rebuild lost structure while restoring function and appearance.
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the damage.
For minor mild wear, dental bonding, a procedure where tooth-coloured resin is applied to the affected area can be an effective solution.
In more severe cases, crowns or veneers may be necessary.
These custom made caps cover the damaged tooth, providing both protection and a natural appearance.
For situations where teeth are too damaged to save, dentures or bridges may be recommended.
However, these treatments are often expensive and time-consuming, highlighting the importance of prevention.
Preventing excessive tooth wear starts with awareness and simple lifestyle adjustments.
For those who grind their teeth at night, a night guard can be a game-changer.
These soft, custom-fitted dental splints create a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth, preventing further damage while sleeping.
Avoiding the use of teeth as tools is another crucial step.
Instead of biting open packages or cracking nuts, reach for scissors or a nutcracker.
When it comes to oral hygiene, gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste is essential.
Brushing too hard or using abrasive products can do more harm than good.
Additionally, managing stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga can reduce teeth grinding, especially for those who clench their jaws during stressful situations.
Teeth are remarkably strong, but they are not indestructible.
While some wear is natural, bad habits can accelerate the process, leading to pain, premature aging and costly dental procedures.
By understanding the causes of tooth wear and taking proactive steps to protect them, we can maintain healthy teeth for decades.
The key takeaway is simple: a little care today can prevent significant problems tomorrow.
If you suspect you grind your teeth or notice signs of excessive wear, such as flattened surfaces or increased sensitivity, don’t wait, consult your dentist immediately.
Early intervention can save your smile and spare you from more extensive treatments down the road.
Our teeth are designed to last a lifetime but our decisions and habits determine whether they manage to do so or not.
- Patience Matambo is a final year BSc Dental Surgery student at the People’s Friendship University of Russia. She can be reached at patiencedental2024@gmail.com
