What Is Worn Dentition?
Worn dentition refers to the gradual loss of tooth structure due to chronic wear. It often results from teeth grinding (bruxism), misaligned bites, acid erosion, or even age-related factors. While some wear is natural over time, excessive tooth wear can lead to serious complications affecting your bite, appearance, and jaw function.
Common Causes of Worn Teeth
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): A leading cause of worn teeth, especially during sleep.
Acid Erosion: Frequent exposure to acidic foods or reflux can thin enamel.
Malocclusion: Misaligned teeth or bite issues can create uneven pressure.
Aging: Years of chewing gradually wear down enamel and dentin.
Effects of Worn-Out Dentition
Worn dentition can impact your oral and overall health in the following ways:
1. Tooth Sensitivity and Pain
As enamel wears down, the inner dentin layer is exposed, leading to tooth sensitivity and discomfort when eating or drinking.
2. Bite Imbalance and TMJ Disorder
Worn teeth can disrupt the harmony of your bite, potentially causing TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder, jaw clicking, or chronic jaw pain.
3. Facial Aesthetics
Loss of tooth height affects facial support, often leading to premature aging, sunken cheeks, or a collapsed bite.
4. Difficulty Chewing
Severe wear can compromise tooth structure, making it hard to chew or digest food properly.
How to Treat Worn Dentition
Early intervention is key to preventing further damage. Treatment options include:
✅ Dental Splint Therapy
A custom dental splint or nightguard helps protect against further bruxism-related damage and can relieve pressure on the jaw joint.
✅ Bite Correction
For patients with bite misalignment, bite reconstruction or orthotic appliances can restore functional balance.
✅ Composite Build-Ups and Crowns
Worn teeth can be rebuilt with composite resin or ceramic crowns to restore height and function.
✅ TMJ Therapy
If jaw symptoms are present, a TMJ specialist may recommend Botox for muscle relaxation or work alongside a TMJ physiotherapist.
✅ Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications
Reducing acidic food and managing stress are essential to control grinding and prevent erosion.
When to See a Dentist
If you’re experiencing:
Flat, short, or chipped teeth
Morning jaw pain or headaches
Increased tooth sensitivity
Clicking or popping sounds in your jaw
Changes in facial appearance
…it’s time to consult a dentist experienced in treating worn dentition and TMJ disorders.
Final Thoughts
Worn-out dentition is not just a cosmetic issue—it’s a functional problem that can affect your entire jaw system. Timely diagnosis and a customized treatment plan can restore your bite, improve facial harmony, and prevent long-term damage.
If you're looking for expert care in bruxism treatment, TMJ therapy, or bite correction, our clinic offers tailored solutions to restore your smile and function.