Dental Abfractions: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
Expert Care with Dr. Medynskyj in Hinsdale, La Grange, Oak Brook & Western Springs, IL
Dental abfractions are often overlooked but can significantly impact your oral health if left untreated. These small V-shaped notches near the gumline may seem minor at first but can lead to tooth sensitivity, discomfort, or even gum recession.
Dr. Celeste Medynskyj, a trusted dentist serving Hinsdale, La Grange, Oak Brook, and Western Springs, IL, is here to help you understand and treat dental abfractions before they cause long-term damage.
What Are Dental Abfractions?
Dental abfractions are small, wedge-shaped notches that form near the gumline—typically on the outer surfaces of teeth. Unlike cavities, they are not caused by bacteria but by mechanical stress, especially from biting and chewing forces.
These notches often appear on molars and premolars but can also affect the front teeth. While they may begin as a cosmetic concern, abfractions can cause tooth sensitivity, discomfort, and gum recession if untreated.
What Causes Dental Abfractions?
1. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Bruxism is a major contributor to dental abfractions. Grinding or clenching—especially during sleep—puts excess stress on tooth enamel, leading to notches near the gumline.
👉 Learn more about bruxism and treatment options
2. Misaligned Teeth (Malocclusion)
When the upper and lower teeth don’t align properly, it can cause uneven bite forces. This leads to localized stress on certain teeth, increasing the risk of abfractions.
👉 Explore orthodontic solutions
3. Aggressive Brushing
Using a hard-bristled toothbrush or brushing with excessive force can wear away the enamel—especially near the gumline—making the teeth vulnerable to damage.
👉 See our gentle brushing tips
4. Poorly Fitted Dental Restorations
Crowns or fillings that don’t align properly can create imbalanced pressure, accelerating enamel loss at the gumline. If you suspect this, schedule an exam to adjust your restorations.
👉 Request a dental evaluation
Signs and Symptoms of Dental Abfractions
V-shaped notches at the gumline
Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
Discomfort when chewing
Gum recession near affected teeth
Aesthetic concerns from visible enamel loss
How Are Dental Abfractions Diagnosed?
Dr. Medynskyj performs a comprehensive dental exam—visually inspecting your gumline and using X-rays if needed. She may also ask about grinding habits, bite issues, or brushing technique to pinpoint the root cause.
Treatment Options for Dental Abfractions in Hinsdale, La Grange, Oak Brook & Western Springs, IL
1. Tooth Bonding
Ideal for mild cases. A tooth-colored resin is applied to restore the natural shape of the tooth and protect it from further damage.
2. Dental Crowns
In more advanced cases, crowns restore both appearance and function by fully covering the weakened tooth.
👉 Learn about dental crowns
3. Nightguards for Bruxism
Custom-made nightguards protect your teeth from grinding stress and help prevent further enamel erosion.
👉 Get fitted for a custom nightguard
4. Orthodontic Treatment
If misalignment is the issue, Dr. Medynskyj may refer you for braces or clear aligners to correct your bite and reduce uneven pressure.
👉 Explore orthodontic consultation options
How to Prevent Dental Abfractions
✅ Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
✅ Brush with gentle, circular motions
✅ Avoid abrasive toothpastes
✅ Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
✅ Correct bite alignment issues
✅ Visit your dentist regularly for early detection
👉 Book your next preventive checkup
Why Choose Dr. Medynskyj?
As a compassionate and highly skilled dentist in Hinsdale, La Grange, Oak Brook, and Western Springs, Dr. Medynskyj offers personalized dental care with a focus on prevention, early diagnosis, and conservative treatment of conditions like dental abfractions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a cavity and a dental abfraction?
A cavity is caused by decay, while a dental abfraction is a V-shaped notch at the gumline caused by mechanical stress such as teeth grinding or aggressive brushing.
Can a dental abfraction be reversed?
Enamel cannot regrow, but treatments like bonding or dental crowns can restore the tooth’s structure and protect it from further damage.
Are abfractions dangerous?
Left untreated, abfractions can lead to sensitivity, gum recession, and further enamel damage.
Do nightguards really help?
Yes—custom nightguards help protect the teeth from the forces of grinding and reduce the risk of developing or worsening abfractions.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Medynskyj
Concerned about notches at your gumline or tooth sensitivity? Contact Dr. Medynskyj’s office to schedule a consultation today. We proudly serve patients from Hinsdale, La Grange, Oak Brook, and Western Springs, IL.
📍 Salt Creek Family Dental
911 N. Elm Street, Suite 225
Hinsdale, IL 60521-3600
📞 (630) 323-0060
🌐 https://saltcreekfamilydental.com