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Worn Teeth<br />
By: James J. White, D.D.S. / Your Dentist<br />
There are three basic signs of occlusal (bite)<br />
instability: Wear of, movement or mobility<br />
of teeth.<br />
Loss of tooth structure, better known as occlusal wear disease, is<br />
no less important than tooth loss as a result of decay. Indeed, tooth<br />
structure loss due to wear is probably much more important than<br />
decay, as tooth decay is easily treated.<br />
Loss of tooth structure is most commonly noticed on the front teeth.<br />
It isn’t rocket science - one can just look in the mirror. One does not<br />
need a dentist to tell them that their teeth are flattening, chipping on<br />
the edges, or wearing away.<br />
There are two basic causes of tooth wear: Bruxism or grinding of<br />
teeth during sleep and unbalanced occlusion (bite).<br />
Bruxism/grinding is not something one is aware of except in severe<br />
cases. It occurs during the rem period of sleep and does not necessarily<br />
occur every night. Believe me, any competent dentist will know as he/<br />
she can see the wear.<br />
There are also times that a patient will have a dull ache in the jaw<br />
muscles for no apparent reason. The patient often thinks it may be due<br />
to a tooth. Indeed it is an occlusal muscle problem that is only episodic<br />
and will resolve. It is no different than muscle discomfort after a good<br />
work out at the gym.<br />
See your dentist and have a custom fitted night guard made to<br />
wear during sleep. Think of the night guard like a pair of shoes - it<br />
ultimately will wear out and need replacement but usually lasts for<br />
years. Far better that one wears out the night guard than their teeth.<br />
Front tooth wear can be due to an unstable bite as well. The wear of<br />
the front teeth is often due to an interference on the back teeth, since the<br />
lower jaw is postured forward automatically to avoid this interference<br />
in the back.<br />
As teeth in the front of the mouth wear away, there is an automatic<br />
aging appearance. Worn teeth are associated with aging.<br />
Don’t ignore tooth wear. It’s a serious sign. Teeth are designed to last<br />
a lifetime in ordinary circumstances.<br />
In today’s dentistry this is not something one has to accept. Having<br />
cosmetic dental care is one of the most predictable ways to provide<br />
a more youthful appearance. Remember: A beautiful smile speaks<br />
volumes.<br />
Tired of wearing dentures that<br />
don’t stay in place, won’t chew food<br />
well or cause mouth sores from time to time?<br />
Make an investment in yourself!<br />
What would it be worth not to have dentures anymore?<br />
Eat and chew ANYTHING you want. Laugh out loud<br />
without the fear of your teeth falling.<br />
Corn on the cob? Stop remembering “when.”<br />
Get permanent teeth in one day.<br />
Today’s dentistry is amazing!<br />
Phone for a complimentary consultation.<br />
Learn more about Dr. White at:<br />
www.jameswhitedds.com<br />
James J. White DDS<br />
1140 Town Center Drive, # 170<br />
Las Vegas, NV 89144<br />
702/562-8833<br />
702/562-7910 Fax<br />
White smiles are for everyone!<br />
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