What is an Abfraction?

Abfractions are notches in the tooth structure near, or even under, the gumline, usually on the cheek side of the tooth. Although all the causes that lead to abfractions are not known, an important factor is improper forces on teeth, which can be caused by a misaligned bite or the grinding and clenching of teeth.

When you bite a slightly off, one tooth may hit sooner than the rest. This causes undue stress on the involved teeth, and they begin to flex. Over time, this continual flexing and stress causes the enamel to separate from the inner dentin layer of the tooth, forming a notch at the gumline. Tooth grinding and clenching also place extra stress on teeth.

How do we correct abfraction?

Treating the abfraction problem may include two or more steps, such as adjusting the bite, wearing a nightguard, and restoring the tooth.

We may first adjust your bite so that chewing forces are evenly distributed among all your teeth. We may have to adjust only the tooth in question, or we may have to adjust all your teeth. If tooth grinding or clenching is the problem, we may prescribe a nightguard to absorb those stresses and protect your teeth.

The second phase involves restoring the damage by bonding a filling in place. Tooth-colored filling can fill in the damage and restore the tooth to nearly its original color and shape.

Dealing with abfractions early can prevent further damage and restore your teeth to beautiful good health.

  
         Before                                                          After

                      

       Deep Abfraction                              Repaired Abfraction with composite Bonding