Tooth wear is a common dental concern that can significantly impact your oral health and aesthetics. At Balham Dental Studio, we understand the causes and consequences of tooth wear and offer comprehensive solutions to protect and restore your smile.
Tooth wear refers to the gradual loss of tooth structure that is not caused by decay or trauma. It is a complex issue that can manifest in several distinct forms, depending on the forces acting upon the teeth.
There are four primary categories of tooth wear. Abrasion is typically external, caused by friction from objects like aggressive toothbrushing or using overly abrasive toothpastes. In contrast, attrition results from internal tooth-to-tooth contact, usually due to involuntary habits such as teeth grinding or clenching (known as bruxism). Erosion is a chemical process caused by the exposure of teeth to acids, often from acidic foods, drinks, or from stomach acid due to reflux. Finally, abfraction refers to wedge-shaped defects that appear near the gumline, often linked to excessive biting forces or stress on the tooth structure.
Identifying tooth wear early is crucial, as the damage is irreversible. One of the most common signs is an increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. You may also notice physical changes in your mouth, such as the shortening of teeth, flattened or chipped biting surfaces, or the appearance of notches or grooves near the gumline. As the protective outer layer of enamel is lost, the underlying dentine can become exposed, leading to a visible yellowing of the teeth.
If left untreated, tooth wear can lead to serious complications. Patients face an increased risk of tooth decay and fractures, and the damage can result in pain and discomfort. Furthermore, severe wear can fundamentally change your bite and jaw alignment, potentially requiring extensive and expensive restorative work later in life. Addressing tooth wear proactively preserves your smile’s aesthetics and your long-term oral function.
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We are dedicated to diagnosing the root cause of your wear and providing tailored solutions to prevent further damage and restore your teeth.
If you’re concerned about tooth wear or experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t hesitate to contact Balham Dental Studio. We are committed to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.
Book an appointmentChoosing the right orthodontist is a big decision. You want someone who is skilled, gentle and understands your needs. Here at Balham Dental Studio, we’re committed to providing exceptional orthodontic care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. But don’t just take our word for it, see what our patients have to say about their experiences with us.
While some very slight wear is expected over a lifetime, significant shortening is not a usual part of ageing. If your teeth look noticeably flatter, thinner, or more translucent at the edges, it usually indicates an underlying issue like grinding or acid erosion. Catching this early prevents the need for more complex dental work later on.
Dental professionals generally categorise wear into three main types:
Abrasion: Wear caused by outside objects, most commonly by brushing too hard or using a stiff-bristled toothbrush.
Attrition: Physical wear caused by teeth rubbing together (often due to clenching or grinding, especially at night).
Erosion: Chemical wear caused by acids. This can come from dietary habits (soda, citrus, wine) or medical conditions like acid reflux.
Yes, very often your teeth can be sensitive. Your teeth are protected by a hard outer layer called enamel. As that layer wears away, it exposes the softer, yellowish layer underneath called dentin. Dentin contains tiny tubules that lead directly to the tooth’s nerve, which is why worn teeth can feel a sharp twinge when you eat or drink something hot, cold, or sweet.
Unfortunately, tooth enamel cannot regrow because it contains no living cells. Once it’s gone, it’s gone for good. However, the good news is that we can protect what remains. Depending on the level of wear, we can use treatments like:
Dental bonding or veneers: To restore the shape and look of the tooth.
Night guards: To prevent further damage from grinding.
Fluoride treatments: To help harden and desensitise the remaining enamel.
Balham Dental Studio
112 Balham High Road, SW12 9AA
Areas we serve include: - Clapham, Balham, and surrounding areas.
| Monday | 8:30 am – 7:00 pm |
| Tuesday | 8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 8:30 am – 7:00 pm |
| Thursday | 8:30 am – 7:00 pm |
| Friday | 8:30 am – 5:30 pm |
| Saturday | 9:30 am – 3:00 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
Closed on Bank Holidays