Abfraction Burlington

At Lakeside Family Dental, we believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge they need to take control of their oral health. One condition that may be affecting your teeth without you even realizing it is called abfraction. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand what it is and how we can help.

What is Abfraction?

Abfraction is the term given to the attrition of tooth structure that normally happens at the gum line and results from excessive force or stress exerted on the teeth. This stress can cause enamel to crack or wear away, resulting in small notches or indentations near the gums. Abfraction is most often seen on the biting surfaces or sides of the teeth, mostly along areas that are exposed to pressures from chewing or grinding.

What Causes Abfraction?

Abfraction is associated with teeth grinding or clenching, which can cause uneven forces on the teeth and make them flex and stress. This consistently applied force can therefore lead to weakening the enamel, hence leading to the formation of these dramatic indentations. Other factors may include unevenly aligned teeth, improper brushing, or an incorrect bite.

How is Abfraction Treated?

Unattended abfraction conditions may escalate to critical dental problems including heightened tooth sensitivity or possible tooth fractures. At Lakeside Family Dental, we offer a variety of treatment options to address abfraction:

  • Dental Fillings: We can provide tooth-colored fillings to restore the area affected, thereby preserving it from further wear and improving function and aesthetics.
  • Mouthguards: We may recommend a custom mouthguard if you are a teeth grinder; this will reduce the stress on your teeth when you sleep.
  • Bite Adjustments: Some bites will require orthodontic treatment to help correct it so the force on your teeth is reduced.

If you think that you may be suffering from an abfraction, or even the sensitivity in one of your teeth is causing a considerable amount of irritation, get hold of Lakeside Family Dental as soon as you can.

289-812-2378