Most people already know an excessively acidic diet can wear teeth down. This process, called erosion, is not the only cause of tooth wear. Along with erosion, the processes of attrition and abrasion can significantly damage teeth as well. Knowing how to avoid these problems requires getting expert advice from a qualified dentist. That means scheduling an appointment at the Kamuela, HI, office of Brian S. Kubo, DDS. With years of experience and a list of services ranging from cosmetic dentistry to dental implants, Dr. Kubo has the skills and knowledge necessary to teach patients about how to prevent tooth wear.

While it’s no secret that brushing your teeth is key to maintaining a healthy smile, what some patients don’t know is that brushing too hard can have a negative effect, known as abrasion. If a person brushes too forcefully, this can wear down the enamel above the gum line, resulting in teeth that are oversensitive to heat or cold. Often, the combination of an acidic diet and abrasive brushing can speed up these harmful processes. To prevent problems associated with abrasion, be sure to not brush too aggressively, and wait at least 30 minutes after having an acidic drink before brushing.

Attrition is another common cause of tooth wear. This is what happens when a person grinds their teeth excessively. Over time, this can cause teeth to appear flatter and shorter. In severe cases, it can even result in the loss of teeth, forcing a patient to replace their teeth with dental implants. Patients can avoid this outcome by asking their dentist to create a night guard for them to wear so they don’t grind their teeth while sleeping.

For over a decade, the people of Kamuela have been able to depend on quality care from the office of Brian S. Kubo, DDS. A skilled dentist doesn’t merely treat patients. Dr. Kubo also provides them with the knowledge they need to avoid dental problems before they arise. To learn more about tooth wear, call the local dentist office at (808) 885-8465 to schedule an appointment. You can also visit the practice online for more information.