Definition
·
Attrition is loss of tooth structure caused
by tooth-to-tooth contact during occlusion and mastication.
·
20% people grind their teeth during daytime
& 10% during night.
The mechanism of attrition
· Initially, the enamel wears out as it encounters friction with the
opposing tooth and this exposes the surface of the dentin, making it more
vulnerable to more damage.
·
Additional attrition that occurs can lead to further damage and
result in fracture.
The causes of attrition
· Bruxism is a main factor in causing attrition.
·
Parafunctional habit also contributes to attrition. This includes
strongly clenching the teeth when restraining anger and during anxiety.
Shivering also causes teeth to grind against each other reflexly.
·
Hard food and constant gum chewing increases tooth to tooth contact
and contributes to attrition.
Clinical features of tooth attrition
 |
| Shortening of anterior teeth with flat angular edges. The morphology of the tooth is altered |
 |
| Posterior teeth becomes flattened and lose their cusps. This will reduce the grinding efficiency of food. |
 |
| Yellowing of the tops of teeth as enamel wears through to underlying softer dentin. This can give an unpleasant sight to people interacting with the person. |
4.Slight mobility of tooth in sockets that can cause
irritability to the person.
5. Shortening of dental arch due to decrease in mesio-distal
width as attrition occurs on the interproximal space as well.
6.Hypersensitive to temperature both hot and cold and
sweet due to the exposed dentin underneath receiving the stimuli and giving
pain sensations.
Prevention and treatment
·
No specific treatment is available for
attrition.
·
However, in the case of bruxism, the
patient is encouraged to wear night guard to reduce attrition.
·
The patient should eat healthy diet and
prevent the chewing food more often.
·
If it has reached a severe level, the best
option is crown replacement.
 |
| Before and After treatment |
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