What causes tooth wear?

Ever been told that you are brushing too hard? Does it sound contradictory when you're told that you have to brush gently to have healthy teeth? We all want to "scrub" our teeth clean for pearly whites and healthy gums. So, what's right?

There are different kinds of tooth wear, arising from different factors. This article is going to address the wear that occurs on the sides of our teeth at the gum line, often referred to as "gum line abrasion", which can increase tooth sensitivity and gum recession. How does this type of damage occur?

This type of abrasion is commonly caused by your toothbrush and choice of toothpaste. Surprised?

It is very important to use a soft toothbrush. Brushing technique is very important as well. Brush in small circles with the brush at a 45 degree angle to your teeth. Do not brush in a "sawing" back-and-forth motion.

For patients inclined to abrasion, it is reccomended to use a toothpaste with an RDA(relative dentin abrasiveness) of less than 100.

Listed below are some toothpastes with an acceptable abrasion rate:

• Plain baking soda
• Arm & Hammer Dental Care
• Tom's of Maine Sensitive
• Colgate Total, Regular and Sensitive
• Crest-Regular
• AIM
• Rembrandt- Mint & Plus
• Aquafresh

For additional information, contact KL Family Dental at 630-653-7700, 1N121 County Farm Rd, Winfield, IL