Dental attrition is the gradual wearing of tooth structure due to tooth-to-tooth contact. This condition is common in individuals who clench or grind their teeth. The spelling of "attrition" is pronounced as /əˈtrɪʃ(ə)n/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "a" is pronounced as a schwa sound, followed by a stressed "trition" sound. It is crucial to maintain good dental hygiene and address dental attrition promptly to avoid further damage to the teeth. Dentists can provide treatment options such as wearing a nightguard to protect teeth against grinding.
Dental attrition refers to the gradual wearing down or erosion of tooth surfaces due to mechanisms such as tooth-to-tooth contact, friction, or grinding during the process of mastication or abnormal habits. It is considered a normal physiological process to some extent, as the repeated pressures and movements associated with chewing food can cause slight wear on the teeth. However, excessive or abnormal dental attrition can occur in certain individuals due to intrinsic factors, habits, or external influences.
Several factors can contribute to dental attrition. One notable cause is bruxism, a condition characterized by excessive grinding or clenching of teeth, often occurring at night during sleep. Individuals with misaligned teeth or malocclusion may also experience higher levels of dental attrition as the teeth may not be evenly aligned, leading to uneven wear patterns. External factors like diet, such as consuming highly abrasive foods or drinks, can also accelerate dental attrition.
The consequences of dental attrition can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of wear and individual variations. Initially, attrition may cause tooth sensitivity as the protective enamel layer is compromised. As the erosion progresses, it can lead to a decrease in tooth size, changes in tooth morphology, loss of vertical height, and exposure of the underlying dentin, increasing the risk of dental decay and tooth fractures.
Regular dental check-ups and interventions like the use of bite guards, orthodontic correction, or dental restoration techniques may be necessary to manage excessive dental attrition and prevent further damage to the teeth.
The word "attrition" derives from the Latin word "attritio", which means "rubbing against, wearing down". It comes from the verb "attingere", meaning "to touch, to come into contact with". In the context of dental terms, "attrition" refers to the wearing away of tooth structure due to the natural or abnormal grinding, clenching, or rubbing of teeth against each other during chewing or other oral functions. "Dental" refers to anything related to teeth or dentistry. Combining the two words, "dental attrition" specifically refers to the erosion or wearing down of tooth surfaces.