Worn teeth can make it difficult for you to perform essential daily tasks. This is because your teeth are shaped in such a way that you use them as tools. In fact, the ridges and points to your teeth have essential jobs. For example, when you bite into food, your incisors (front teeth) slice through the food. Also, your molars (back teeth) grind the food small enough for you to swallow and receive nutrients. If your teeth are worn down, even eating food can become impossible.
Over time, your teeth can naturally wear down with use. Much like any tool, teeth receive wear and tear. Some people naturally have more durable enamel than others, increasing the life of their teeth. However, time is not the only factor for worn teeth. Grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw can damage your enamel and wear down your teeth.
Fortunately, there are several solutions for worn teeth that will help restore their look and function.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a quick, simple procedure that uses composite resin to restore the look of your teeth. Dentists use dental bonding to fix a variety of dental issues, including chipped teeth, severe discoloration, or tooth structure. Additionally, dental bonding can be used for restorative purposes as well. When you get a cavity, your dentist will fill the hole with composite resin.
Composite resin is a flexible material before it hardens. This means that your dentist can utilize it to form any shape. Therefore it is a good candidate for fixing worn teeth. However, the composite resin isn’t as durable as other methods. So, it is better to use it on teeth that don’t receive high impact, such as your front teeth.
Dental Veneer
Dentists commonly use dental veneers to improve the appearance of many cosmetic issues. Dental veneers are thin porcelain shells that your dentist places on the front surface of your teeth. Because dental veneers are tooth-colored, they will blend with the rest of your teeth. Of course, you can also use them to alter your smile completely. Dental veneers change the appearance of discolored, chipped, uneven, or worn-down teeth.
If you choose dental veneers to fix worn teeth, you can enjoy their anti-staining benefits. However, receiving dental veneers is a permanent process. This is because the dentist has to remove a portion of your enamel to place the veneer properly. Removing the enamel helps the veneer hold its place and provides a seamless placement.
Dental Crown
Dental crowns are like small “caps” that sit over damaged teeth. Specifically, a dentist will reshape part of the tooth with a drill. Then, they will place a crown to protect the inner portion of your tooth. Dental crowns restore the look and feel of your teeth.
Additionally, crowns are more durable than dental bonding. Unlike bonding and veneers, crowns can fill the place of your back teeth. Because your molars endure a lot of impacts, they need a restorative option that can bear the burden. Fortunately, dental crowns can replace your worn teeth, regardless of their place in your mouth.
