Three Types of Tooth Wear

Your teeth are made to last a lifetime, but as does your body, your teeth naturally sustain wear as time goes by. Natural wear happens slowly over a lifetime and includes the wearing of enamel and  tooth structure. However, sometimes certain conditions or habits can cause unnecessary stress and wear on your teeth that are excessive. This type of wear is abnormal because it is not just the usual wear and tear, and it accelerates degeneration of your dentition.  In today’s blog, your Reno dentists, Dr. William Wager and Dr. Brian Evans discuss three types of tooth wear. 

Tooth Wear

There are three main classifications of tooth wear: abrasion, attrition, and erosion.

Dental Abrasion

Dental abrasion occurs when your teeth come into contact with a foreign body that causes wear. Overzealous tooth brushing with a hard bristled brush, chewing hard or abrasive foods, or abnormal habits such as biting your nails, chewing ice, or using your teeth to cut tape are the types of contact that cause dental abrasion.

Dental Attrition

Dental attrition occurs when your teeth become worn through abnormal, excessive, or chronic contact with your other teeth. Bruxing (grinding and clenching your teeth together) puts excessive stress and force on your teeth which causes abnormal wear and is classified as dental attrition.

Dental Erosion

Dental erosion is the most common type of tooth wear. It is caused by the dissolution of tooth structure by excessive acids. Most commonly it is due to frequent consumption of acidic drinks such as soda. However, it can also be due to the regurgitation of stomach acids from heartburn, acid reflux, or repeated vomiting due to pregnancy, anorexia, or bulimia.

About Your Reno Dentists

Dr. William Wager, Dr. Brian Evans, and our highly experienced team at Wager Evans Dental are devoted to our patients and their families, and dedicated to providing first-rate dental care in a comfortable, inviting environment. Located in Reno, we proudly welcome residents from Spanish Springs, Sparks, Incline Village, Dayton, Fernley, and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation or your next dental appointment, visit our office, or contact us today by calling (775) 800-4845.

About The Author

Dr. Brian Evans

Dr. Brian Evans, the current owner of Wager Evans Dental, initially worked as a CPA before transitioning to dentistry to make a greater impact on people's lives. He joined his father-in-law to expand a three-decade-long legacy in the northern Nevada community, eventually taking over the practice. Dr. Evans prioritizes a comfortable environment for his patients and stays at the forefront of dental technology and medical techniques through continuous education and advanced training, focusing on oral and systemic health.

Read The Full Bio