Pre-existing alignment problems between two or more of your teeth can cause excess wear and stress on a tooth’s enamel layer. While it might not be obvious at first, the gradually process of dental attrition can start to have an increasing negative effect on the health and integrity of the tooth.
If the dentin layer of the tooth becomes exposed, it could lead to severe tooth sensitivity. If bacterial deposits start to accumulate in the irregular textures of the dental attrition it could also cause a severe cavity to develop. At the same time the compromised dental structure could also lead to a severe dental fracture.
Sometimes the area of compromised tooth enamel is too large for Dr. Joel Wiersum to effectively repair the tooth with a dental filling. In a case like this, Dr. Joel Wiersum might recommend treating it with a dental crown.
A dental crown is essentially replica of the tooth’s enamel layer anchored onto an abutment made from the dentin core within. The specific material Dr. Joel Wiersum uses for the dental crown will depend on the tooth’s location in your mouth.
Dr. Joel Wiersum will generally recommend a porcelain dental crown for a tooth that will be visible in your smile. This special dental material can be shaded to match the surrounding teeth.
If you live in the Kodiak, Alaska, area and one of your teeth has been compromised by dental attrition, you should call 907-486-3475 to have it examined and treated at Alaska Smile Center.