Worn down teeth are a very common indication for a Full Mouth Reconstruction. The critical issue is that many people may have this problem, but few intercept it on time to control the damage
The events that can cause a worn down enamel include:
- Bruxism and clenching (excessive uncontrolled frequent forces on your teeth)
- Genetically misconfigured enamel (amelogenesis imperfecta)
- Gastro Esophagic Reflux Disease (excess of acids in your mouth due to gastric reflux) and,
- Bulimia (acids in your mouth meltdown the teeth). In all cases, the outmost layer of the teeth (enamel) that is supposed to be the strongest layer protecting your teeth wears off to the point the next layer of your teeth (dentin) is exposed.
Dentin is not as hard as enamel and not meant to chew with, so it quickly wears reaching out the pulp space affecting in some cases the vitality of the teeth.
Esthetically, teeth will gradually look shorter or broken down due to the loss of damaged enamel. In severe cases, the lower third of the face appears smaller than it used to be. The masticatory function is often compromised as teeth surfaces are not as effective as they used to be. Muscles around jaws and neck can appear rigid and painful for some patients and occasionally Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) are observed in conjunction with excessive teeth wear.
Patient with Worn Dentition
Worn Dentition Before Treatment
(Actual patient treated by Dr Castro)
Restored Worn Dentition
Worn Dentition After Treatment
Full Mouth Reconstruction by Dr Castro
What Can be done If I have worn Teeth?
Consult a Prosthodontist. Treatment of worn teeth depends of how advanced is the wear. If the process is stopped on time, the tooth wear can be slowed down by using a night guard on daily basis. More severe cases require rehabilitation of the entire mouth by which missing structures are replaced and patients recover the ability to chew, smile, and speak normally again.
It takes a rigorous full-time training of three additional years to regular dental school to qualify to perform these kinds of procedures with adequate and predictable outcomes. So only Prosthodontists are trained to perform Full Mouth Reconstructions
What happens after a Full Mouth Reconstruction due to worn Teeth?
Containing the cause of the problem should help to prevent the recurrence. For bruxers/clenchers, the use of a nightguard even after the treatment is completed is mandatory. Patients with problems associated to acid reflux like GERD and Bulimia require special fluoride trays to protect the remaining tooth structure from acid damage.
Fellows with amelogenesis imperfecta after a full mouth reconstruction require traditional follow-up and maintenance appointments.
Trust Your Smile to a Specialist. Check out our team at Georgia Prosthodontics – Smile Specialists. Call us for a consultation.