Tooth Wear

Tooth wear often occurs over time, and you likely won’t notice it until your teeth are clearly worn or broken. Most people also are not aware that they clench or grind their teeth, which is a large factor in tooth wear. Your dentist will examine your teeth at your regular check up appointments and will often be able to spot and treat tooth wear before it becomes a larger problem.

Acidic food and drinks, such as squash, fizzy drinks, citrus fruit and sour sweets, can cause the enamel on your teeth to erode and lead to problems with tooth wear. It is best to avoid or limit these to give your teeth the best chance at staying healthy. We can give you some tips to help, including using straws and rinsing your mouth with water after consuming acidic items.

The outer layer of enamel on your teeth is white, but the dentine underneath this is more yellow in colour. If the enamel is worn away, the dentine is exposed, thus making your teeth look duller. We can use composite bonding or a crown to protect your tooth and enhance its appearance, giving you a brighter smile.

Tooth wear can’t be reversed, but it can be restored and managed. We can use tailored treatments to improve the function and appearance of your teeth, including composite bonding, crowns and veneers. We can also give you advice and support to address the cause of your tooth wear.