Teeth naturally wear a little over a lifetime, but many people experience wear far faster than normal. Front teeth can become shorter and thinner, edges can chip, and teeth can look more yellow as enamel thins. Worn teeth can make a smile look older and can lead to sensitivity and bite problems. Understanding the cause is the first step to an effective, lasting repair.
Attrition is wear from tooth-to-tooth contact, often from grinding or clenching, especially at night. Erosion is chemical loss of enamel caused by acids from fizzy drinks, citrus fruits, sports drinks or acid reflux. Abrasion is wear from external objects, such as aggressive brushing with a hard brush. Most people with significant wear have a combination of these.
Look out for front teeth that look shorter or more transparent at the edges, flat or cupped biting surfaces on back teeth, increased sensitivity, small chips, and teeth that look more yellow because enamel has thinned and dentine shows through. Your partner may also notice grinding noises at night.
Cosmetic repair will not last if the cause continues. A custom night guard protects teeth from grinding. Reducing acidic drinks, drinking through a straw, and not brushing straight after acidic food or drink help limit erosion. Treating acid reflux with your doctor is also important.
Mild wear can often be restored with composite bonding, which rebuilds edges and surfaces with minimal drilling. More extensive wear may need porcelain veneers, onlays or crowns to restore length, shape and strength. In severe cases, the whole bite may need to be rebuilt in a planned sequence to restore proper tooth height and jaw comfort.
Rebuilding worn teeth involves careful assessment of the bite, jaw joints and facial proportions. Digital smile design, models and trial restorations allow you to preview the result and test the new bite before final work is completed. This planning helps ensure the result looks natural and functions comfortably.
No. Enamel does not regenerate, which is why preventing further wear and restoring lost structure is important.
Signs include worn or flat teeth, jaw ache or headaches in the morning, and a partner hearing grinding at night. Your dentist can check for wear patterns.
Mild to moderate wear can often be restored with composite bonding. More severe wear may need stronger restorations.
Book an assessment to protect and restore worn teeth. Learn more about cosmetic dentistry in Al Ain.
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