Healthy teeth
for a lifetime of smiles
Understanding Tooth Wear
What is tooth wear and what causes it?
Tooth wear — also known as tooth surface loss — is the gradual loss of the outer surface of teeth without decay. It is caused by physical forces like grinding, or chemical factors such as acidic foods and drinks. Early diagnosis is key.
Attrition Tooth-to-tooth contact
Caused by grinding or clenching (bruxism), often during sleep. Very common in people under stress or those who grind at night.
- → Flattened biting edges
- → Shortened or worn-down teeth
- → Often worsens with stress
Erosion Acid dissolving enamel
Caused by acidic foods, drinks, acid reflux, or medical conditions. Enamel gradually dissolves, exposing softer dentine beneath.
- → Thinning, translucent enamel
- → "Cupping" on chewing surfaces
- → Yellowing as dentine shows through
Abrasion Mechanical wear from outside
Most commonly caused by aggressive brushing habits, particularly with a hard-bristled toothbrush. Creates wedge-shaped defects at the gumline.
- → Notches near the gumline
- → Wedge-shaped defects
- → Sensitivity near gum margins
How It Affects You
Signs you may have tooth wear
Tooth Sensitivity
Teeth sensitivity to hot or cold foods can be an early warning sign.
Shortened Teeth
Teeth that appear shorter, flattened, or visibly worn compared to before.
Bite Changes
A noticeable difference in how teeth come together, or difficulty chewing.
Jaw Discomfort
Jaw muscle fatigue, headaches, or tenderness around the jaw joint area.
Cosmetic Concerns
Teeth looking shorter, yellower, or more translucent than they used to be.
Fracture Risk
Worn teeth become structurally weaker — more prone to cracking or chipping.
Treatment Pathway
Matched to the stage of your tooth wear
Early Stage Monitoring & Prevention
- ✓ Diet advice to reduce acidic exposure
- ✓ High fluoride toothpaste
- ✓ Night guard if grinding suspected
- ✓ Regular clinical monitoring
Moderate Stage Protection & Repair
- ✓ Michigan splint or occlusal guard
- ✓ Composite bonding to rebuild teeth
- ✓ Desensitising treatments
- ✓ Managing reflux or underlying causes
Severe Stage Full Restoration
- ✓ Full mouth rehabilitation
- ✓ Composite or ceramic restorations
- ✓ Restoring lost bite height
- ✓ Advanced occlusal planning