For your teeth to be strong and healthy, they must have enough enamel on them. Unfortunately, enamel can wear off over time, and this is typically a result of abrasion or erosion. When abrasion or erosion occur, they cause you to lose the enamel and structure of your teeth, and this can lead to a variety of problems. Here is an explanation of what these two things are and the differences between them.

Abrasion

Abrasion is something that can happen to teeth from bad habits, such as biting your nails or grinding your teeth. If you do either of these things, it can lead to a loss of tooth structure. In other words, it can cause your teeth to wear away and become smaller. As this happens, the enamel wears away first. Once this happens, the wearing away will continue affecting the teeth and may eventually cause them to be a lot smaller or different in shape and size. Abrasion can also occur if you brush your teeth too hard.

Erosion

Erosion can have the same effects on teeth, but be caused by something different. Erosion is primarily caused by acids that attack and eat away at your teeth. These acids are likely the result of the beverages you drink, but they can also come from failing to brush and floss your teeth each day. If you suffer from heartburn or a similar type of health issue, you may be at a higher risk for erosion of the teeth, and this occurs because the acids from your stomach work their way up your throat and into your mouth. Because of this, your teeth will be exposed to a lot more acid.

Treatment

If your dentist notices that you have a loss of tooth structure from erosion or abrasion, he or she may ask you questions about your habits to determine what has caused this to happen. Your dentist may suggest making changes in your life if necessary, and he or she might also suggest fixing the teeth through composite bonding.

Composite bonding is the material used to fill cavities, but it can also be applied to teeth to strengthen them, change their shape, and protect them when the enamel has worn off.

If you have any problems with your teeth and would like to get help for them, visit a dentist, such as one at Adams Dental Center, in your city today.