Dental abrasion is the tooth structure loss due to mechanical friction from external materials. It is also called a cervical abrasion or tooth abrasion. Abrasion generally happens on the teeth near the gum line but can occur on any part of the teeth.

Signs and symptoms of dental abrasion may include:

• Tooth Sensitivity
• Tooth discoloration
• Notches or grooves on the teeth
• Receded gums
• Swollen and bleeding gums
• Damaged toothbrush bristles

Tooth abrasion is mainly caused by food and foreign body contact like the following:

• Aggressive tooth brushing
• Improper tooth brushing technique
• Hard bristled Toothbrush
• Toothpaste abrasiveness
• Abrasive Diet
• Abnormal habits

• Abrasions and attritions are two distinct types of dental wear that can affect the teeth.
• While both involve the loss of tooth structure, they differ in their causes and mechanism.
• While abrasion is caused by the mechanical friction between external agents and the tooth structure, attrition occurs when teeth come into contact with each other during activities like chewing.
• Abrasion often manifests as notches or grooves near the gum line or the exposed root surfaces, while attrition may lead to flattening the teeth’ biting surfaces.

Tooth abrasion can be prevented in people by

• Using a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush their teeth.
• Applying gentle pressure and a circular motion can minimize the risk.
• Replacing their Toothbrush once every three to four months.
• Flossing with soft hands without applying too much pressure.
• Not using toothpicks or pins to remove food debris stuck between the teeth.
• Stop biting on objects like pens, pencils, needles, threads, nails, etc.

If left unnoticed and untreated, a tooth abrasion can:

• Progress and cause more tooth structure loss.
• Increase the risk of tooth decay.
• Cause severe sensitivity to food or drinks.
• Cause toothache.
• Leading to further recession of the gum line.
• Cause tooth fracture.
• Lead to infections of the tooth’s root and cause pus formation.