Cervical abrasions are usually a deep concavities on the outer surface of upper and lower teeth adjoining the gingival margin. It is mostly seen in back teeth like canines, premolars and first molars. Main reason of its occurrence is tooth brushing with excess force and repeatedly which cause loss of the microscopic layer of enamel too. Hence dental abrasions lead to teeth sensitivity and sometime tooth fracture also.
Main cause of occurence –
1. Horizontal method of brushing
2. Vigorous and brushing with heavy force
3. Old tooth brush
4. Brushing more than the recommended time
Prevention–
1. Vertical or circular motion ofbrushing
2. Avoid horizontal method of toothbrushing
3. Use optimal force during toothbrushing
4. When tooth bristle start to fray, change the tooth brush as bristle gets harden with daily wear and tear of toothbrushing.
5. Do not use tooth powder as they have more abrasive.
6. Avoid hard brush, use soft or ultrasoft tooth brush. Hard brush does more friction hence more tooth abrasion.
7. Night brushing and mouthwash are mandatory as it reduces bad breath in the morning.
8. only two Minutes of brushing is sufficient.
Treatment-
1. Initial stage – when there is a minor abrasion with no sensitivity, No treatment is required.
2. Slight concavity – Glass ionomer or composite restoration is sufficient for esthetic purpose.
3. Severe concavity – if the cervical abrasion has involved layer of enamel, dentine and pulp, it will cause severe pain in the tooth. Such cases require root canal treatment and followed by esthetic crown.