🔰 What are cervical abfraction injuries?
Occasionally, we may notice a kind of "groove" or "wedge" at the base of the teeth, near the gum. These marks are not cavities, but rather structural lesions known as dental abfraction. Their origin is not an infection, but rather excessive or poorly distributed force on the teeth, as occurs in people who clench or grind their teeth (bruxism).
These forces cause microfractures in the junction between the enamel and the tooth root, weakening that area until tissue is lost. Over time, they can cause tooth sensitivity, gum inflammation, and even the risk of tooth loss if not properly treated.
🔎 Common symptoms:
* Pain or sensitivity to cold
* Receding gums
* "Wedge" appearance at the base of the tooth
* Aesthetic difficulty smiling
👩⚕️ What causes it?
* Bruxism (teeth clenching or grinding)
* Malocclusion (misaligned bite)
* Aggressive brushing (also associated with abrasion)
* Prolonged stress, which leads to nocturnal muscle tension
✅ Treatment and prevention:
* Dental evaluation focusing on the bite
* Use of night guards to protect teeth during sleep
* Cosmetic restorations with resin if there is structural loss
* Education in gentler brushing techniques
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