Abbrasion

Definition
Loss of tooth structure resulting from direct functional forces
between the teeth and external object or from frictional forces
between contacting teeth in presence or abrasive medium

Affect one or more teeth as entire dentition.

Any surfaces can be affected but most common areas are the
cervical areas.
Causes
1) Faulty brushing technique
- Horizontal brushing technique
- Excessive forces

2) Oral hygiene product

- Abrasive toothpaste i.e in general tartar control and whitening
products are more abrasive
Causes
3) Chewing Tobacco

4) Misuse of dental floss and tooth pick

5) Occupational – thread biting by tailor

- holding hair grips between the teeth of seamstress and hairdressers

6) Habits – cracking sunflower seeds

- biting fingernails
Signs and symptoms
• Horizontal cervical notches on buccal surface of exposed radicular
cementum and dentin

• Commonly described as shallow, concave or wedge shaped notches

Cervical abrasion at
the cervical area
Signs and symptoms
• Surface is rather shiny than carious
• Sharply defined margins
• Hard smooth surfaces
Signs and symptoms
• Degree of lost is greatest on prominent teeth
- cuspids
- bicuspids
- teeth adjacent to edentulous area

• Occasionally more advanced on the side of arch opposite dominant hand

• Rounded or V-shaped notches in incisal edges or anterior teeth

• Tooth sensitivity
treatment
• Depends on the severity of the damage
• Desensitizing – application of fluoride
• Gum grafting
• Restorative treatment
Prevention
• Changing tooth brushing technique
• Change type of toothpaste
• Changing habits