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Short front teeth

I have noticed that my four front teeth (top and bottom) are getting a little shorter. What is causing this and what can I do to address the front teeth that are seemingly shorter?
C.S.Y.

Dear C.S.Y.,
A number of factors can cause excessive wear on the front teeth. The front teeth can be worn down (shortened) by attrition, erosion and/or abrasion. Dental attrition is the process where the tooth surface is worn down by the teeth biting/grinding on each other. Excessive attrition usually occurs due to teeth grinding during sleep (nocturnal bruxism).

BeforeBeforeAfterAfterDental erosion is the chemical dissolution of the tooth structure due to acid (but not due to tooth decay/caries). This can happen when the teeth come into contact with acid – e.g. through frequent vomiting, gastro-esophageal reflux and excessive intake of acidic drinks (citrus drinks, soft drinks, sports drinks, wine, etc).

Dental abrasion takes place when the teeth are worn down by physical/mechanical means, i.e. excessive toothbrushing, especially when using a brush with hard bristles.

A combination of the these processes can happen at the same time too – such as brushing the teeth immediately after vomiting or after consuming acidic drinks (dental erosion plus abrasion).

Consult your dental professional to identify what is causing your abnormal tooth wear. Then he or she would be able to advise you on the ways to eliminate the cause and the available treatment options.

Answered by Dr. Sim Tang Eng | Sat, 2007/06/30 - 5:33pm
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