Worn-down teeth can significantly impact your oral health and your appearance.
Worn-down teeth can happen from unusual wear on the teeth, such as that from teeth grinding (bruxism), but also from a misaligned bite or crooked teeth. In cases where an improper bite or misaligned teeth are the cause, teeth can wear unevenly and appear short or develop unusual shapes.
Fortunately, there are several treatments available for worn-down teeth that have affected your smile and your quality of life. What are some of the best ones?
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is an effective and affordable cosmetic treatment for worn-down teeth. In this procedure, your dentist will apply a tooth-colored resin material, similar to that used in modern fillings, to the damaged surfaces of the teeth. Then, they will shape and polish the material to match the natural appearance of the surrounding teeth.
This type of cosmetic treatment is best used for minor tooth wear or one or a few worn down teeth rather than as a complete smile restoration option. For patients who qualify, dental bonding can help restore the shape and structure of worn-down teeth, improving their aesthetics and functionality [1].
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells made of porcelain ceramic that are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth. They are an excellent option for worn-down teeth as they not only correct the shape and size of the teeth but also improve the color and overall appearance of your smile.
Veneers made from porcelain ceramic are more resistant to staining than your natural teeth, and although they are not impervious to damage, they are extremely durable and can provide a long-lasting cosmetic smile restoration for patients with worn-down teeth [2].
Dental Crowns
For more severe cases of worn-down teeth, dental crowns act as both a restorative and cosmetic treatment option. Dental crowns are full-coverage restorations that encase the entire tooth, restoring its natural appearance, strength, and function [3].
These custom-made caps are designed to mimic the size, shape, and color of the surrounding teeth, providing a lasting solution for heavily worn-down teeth. When properly designed and fitted, dental crowns will be indistinguishable from the rest of your teeth and can last for many years.
Tooth Contouring and Reshaping
Tooth contouring and reshaping, also known as enameloplasty or odontoplasty, involves removing small amounts of enamel from worn-down teeth to reshape and restore their proper form.
This cosmetic treatment is suitable for minor cases of worn-down teeth and can be combined with other procedures like dental bonding for optimal results [4]. Tooth contouring is a conservative and painless procedure that can significantly enhance the appearance of worn-down teeth for some patients.
Do You Have Worn-Down Teeth?
Dental bonding, dental veneers, dental crowns, and tooth contouring and reshaping are some of the most effective options for worn-down teeth. Each treatment has its own unique benefits and can be tailored to address the specific needs of the patient. Talk to your dentist today to learn more about your options to restore your smile when you have worn-down teeth!
Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3272350/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22259802/
3. https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/all-topics-a-z/crowns
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3284016/
