Understanding Tooth Wear and Rehabilitation Options at Aidencare Dental Clinic
Tooth wear is a common dental condition that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. At Aidencare Dental Clinic, we are committed to providing our patients with comprehensive solutions to manage and rehabilitate worn teeth.
Under the guidance of Dr. Sum, a proponent of adhesive dentistry, we offer a range of treatments tailored to the severity and type of tooth wear you may be experiencing.
Types of Tooth Wear
Tooth wear can occur in various forms, each with its own causes and implications:
Attrition: This type of wear occurs from tooth-to-tooth contact, often resulting from conditions like bruxism (teeth grinding). The wear is typically seen on the biting surfaces of the teeth.
Abrasion: This wear is the result of external objects or substances brushing against teeth. Common causes include aggressive tooth brushing or the habitual use of toothpicks.
Erosion: Erosion is caused by the chemical dissolution of tooth enamel by acids, not involving bacteria. These acids can come from dietary sources like citrus fruits and carbonated drinks, or from stomach acids in conditions such as acid reflux.
Abfraction: This less common form of wear occurs due to stress fractures in the tooth caused by flexing or bending under pressure, often at the gum line.
Approach to Managing Tooth Wear
At Aidencare Dental Clinic, the treatment approach depends on the severity and type of tooth wear. In milder cases, our priority is to prevent further damage through protective measures and lifestyle changes. For more severe cases, we may choose to intervene with restorative treatments to rehabilitate the affected teeth.
Tooth Wear Rehabilitation with Composite
Dr. Sum is a strong advocate for adhesive dentistry, especially using composite resins, due to its numerous advantages. Here’s how tooth wear rehabilitation typically occurs with composite at our clinic:
Step-by-Step Process
Initial Consultation and Assessment: We begin with a thorough examination to assess the extent of tooth wear and to identify the underlying causes. High-resolution images and impressions of the teeth may be taken to aid in planning.
Treatment Planning: Based on the assessment, Dr. Sum discusses the possible treatment options. For composite restorations, the color and material type are carefully selected to match the natural teeth for a seamless appearance.
Preparation: The affected teeth are gently prepared to ensure that the composite adheres well. This may involve minimal reshaping of the teeth to create a stable foundation for the composite.
Composite Application: Composite resin is meticulously applied in layers to rebuild the tooth structure. Each layer is cured (hardened) using a special light before applying the next, ensuring durability and stability.
Shaping and Polishing: Once the composite is fully applied, Dr. Sum shapes the restoration to achieve a natural tooth appearance and function. The final step involves polishing the composite to a high shine, making it look like natural tooth enamel.
Follow-Up: After the treatment, follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor the restoration and to make any necessary adjustments.
Advantages of Composite Resin
Aesthetics: Composite resins are available in various shades that can be matched to the natural color of your teeth.
Minimally Invasive: The procedure usually requires minimal removal of the tooth structure.
Efficiency: Most composite restorations can be completed in a single visit.
For cases requiring more extensive restoration, Dr. Sum also offers solutions involving ceramics or hybrid materials, combining the benefits of both composite and ceramic materials.
At Aidencare Dental Clinic, we understand the impact of tooth wear on your oral health and quality of life. With state-of-the-art treatments like composite resin restorations, we are equipped to restore not only the function but also the aesthetics of your teeth. If you are experiencing any form of tooth wear, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sum to explore your treatment options and regain your best smile.
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