Cervical Abrasion: When you look at your teeth in the mirror do you notice a groove at the gum line or in the area where the tooth meets gum? If yes, your tooth enamel is wearing out. These are known as abrasions, the abrasions that are seen on the neck of the tooth near the gum line are called cervical abrasions. The abrasion’s appearance may vary depending on the cause of abrasion, however, they are most commonly present in V-shaped caused by excessive lateral pressure whilst tooth-brushing. It also looks like a polished surface with a glossy appearance and is sensitive to touch.

This could be caused due to external forces, such as aggressive brushing, chewing on hard objects or using an abrasive toothpaste.

Loss of tooth enamel leads to tooth sensitivity and increases the risk of dental decay, so we always advise our patients to try to treat their teeth more gently.

Cervical abrasion is non-carious (dental tissue lost near the cementoenamel junction (CEJ)), mechanical wear of teeth due to external forces other than tooth-tooth contact. It most commonly affects teeth along the cervical margins, in most cases,  it affects the premolars and canines.

What causes tooth cervical abrasion?

Cervical abrasion is mainly caused by incorrect tooth brushing techniques. While it’s important to brush your teeth twice per day to keep your oral health intact, remember to use the right toothbrush and apply the right amount of force, else, applying too much pressure while brushing or using a hard bristle toothbrush can damage your tooth enamel causing such abrasions.

Other reasons for cervical abrasioninclude improper brushing technique, nail-biting, using external objects like safety pins, bobby pins, chewing on hard objects or using abrasive toothpaste.

Another reason is the acid refluxes. Acidity lowers the oral pH mouth inducing abrasion.

Can cervical abrasion cause Oral harm?

Cervical loss due to abrasion may lead to consequences and symptoms such as increased tooth sensitivity, increased plaque trapping which will result in periodontal disease and cavities, reduced chances of using dental fittings such as retainers and dentures, and lastly, it may be aesthetically unpleasant.

Treatment of Dental Cervical Abrasions:

Dental Cervical Abrasions are challenging dental problems that require professional attention.

Here are some of the most popular treatments:

• Glass ionomer cement:

A glass ionomer cement (GIC) is a restorative material used in dentistry as a filling material. They are clinically popular in several areas of restorative dentistry, but the restoration of cervical lesions has particularly proven successful. It chemically bonds to the tooth structure, has good esthetics and has good strength giving it a long life span. It is important to note that glass ionomers take a long time to set and need protection from the oral environment in order to prevent contamination and minimize interference with dissolution.

Glass ionomers are considered to prevent caries. This is because of the continuous fluoride release over a prolonged period and the fissures that are more resistant to demineralization.

Also, chemically cured glass ionomer cement is considered safe from allergic reactions.

• Composite  resin restoration

Composite resin fillings are also a good fixture for treating cervical abrasion. Composite resin is a material made up of a mixture of different substances, including plastic and fine glass. Because resin mimics the appearance of natural teeth, restoration made using this material blend right in.

Composite restoration can last at least 5 years, sometimes more than 5. However, there are different factors that can impact the longevity of a composite filling. For example, the location of the filling, biting and chewing pressures, size of the filling, bruxism, the food you eat, etc.            

If the abrasion is deep, severe sensitivity is present or there are pulp injuries, endodontic treatment must be taken to preserve tooth roots. Based on your dentist’s advice, you may then go ahead with Root Canal Treatment.

Prevention of Cervical Abrasions

Although treatable, dental abrasion isn’t reversible. The tooth enamel that wears away doesn’t grow back. To prevent abrasions,

• Brush your teeth with a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and brush back and forth using short strokes
• Use a toothpaste that’s rich in fluoride to strengthen your enamel
• Stop poor oral habits like nail-biting or brushing too hard

Are you suffering from the same and looking for advice? We are more than happy to help you understand your case – Feel free to book your dental appointment with us!