Worn Teeth
Bring back your beautiful smile!
Teeth may wear down for a variety of reasons. It is important to identify the cause to restore the teeth and prevent further damage.Worn Teeth
Bring back your beautiful smile!
Teeth may wear down for a variety of causes. We can treat the underlying issues and restore your teeth.
What are worn teeth?
Worn teeth are a dental condition where your teeth are worn down, either from ageing or performing abnormal movements (also referred to parafunction).
You may not initially think so, but progressively wearing down your teeth can lead to other dental problems. Oftentimes, people first realise they have worn teeth when they notice a difference looking in the mirror.
Types of worn teeth
Abrasion: Wearing down of the tooth enamel due to an abrasive material such as chewing tobacco or from brushing your teeth too hard.
Attrition: Wearing down of the tooth enamel as a result of contact with another tooth. This can be caused by clenching and grinding your teeth, or by chewing on hard food or objects.
Erosion: Wearing down of the tooth enamel due to an acidic environment such as from gastric reflux, vomiting or an overconsumption of sugary carbonated drinks. This can also be caused by certain medications such as aspirin.

Signs of worn teeth:
- Cracks and chips
- Translucent or shiny teeth
- Discolouration
- A flattened or rounded appearance
- Roughness on the tooth surface
- Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Cavities and tooth decay
- Changes in your bite
- Receding gums
- Jaw pain or TMJ disorders



It’s important to seek treatment for worn teeth as soon as possible to prevent any further damage. If you’re concerned about your teeth, book an appointment with us today. We’ll be happy to assess your condition and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes worn teeth?
Several factors can contribute to worn teeth, including:
- Abrasion from toothbrush bristles
- Erosion from acidic and sugary foods and drinks
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Low saliva flow
- Medications
- Ageing
- Other health problems such as acid reflux (GERD) and gastrointestinal problems
How does age affect my teeth?
As we age, our teeth can become worn down from years of use. This is especially true if we have poor oral hygiene habits or if we consume a lot of acidic or sugary foods and drinks. Additionally, our saliva flow decreases as we age, which can contribute to tooth decay.
What treatments are available?
Prevention is always better than a cure. It is important to see your dentist regularly to diagnose any underlying conditions that may cause tooth wear.
If you are already experiencing tooth wear, speak to our friendly cosmetic dentist about our treatment options, and how they could benefit you. Recommended treatments for worn teeth include:
- Night guards/occlusal splint
- Professional scale and clean
- Dental bonding
- Tooth contouring
- Veneers
- Crowns
- Botox/muscle relaxants
Should I be concerned about worn teeth?
Yes, you should be concerned about worn teeth because they can lead to other dental problems. Worn teeth are more susceptible to cavities and tooth decay because the enamel is thinner. They are also more likely to break or crack.
Can my teeth get any worse?
The longer you wait to repair worn teeth, the more severe the damage will become. This can lead to further tooth decay, gum disease, and eventually tooth loss.
How can I keep my teeth from wearing down?
Worn teeth can be prevented with a few easy changes to your daily routine, including:
- Brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Using fluoride toothpaste
- Limiting acidic and sugary foods and drinks
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Chewing sugarless gum to stimulate saliva flow
- Wearing a night guard/occlusal splint at night if you grind your teeth
- Avoiding chewing on hard objects
- Visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings