Do your teeth look shorter than they used to? Do they feel flat, chipped, or uneven? If so, you may be experiencing tooth wear, a common dental issue that often goes unnoticed—until it starts affecting your smile, bite, or comfort.
In this article, we’ll explain:
What causes worn teeth
Why it matters for your bite and long-term health
How composite build-ups can restore your teeth without invasive procedures
🦷 What Are Worn Teeth?
Worn teeth occur when the outer layer of enamel is gradually eroded or lost. This can happen due to:
Common Causes:
Teeth grinding (bruxism) — often during sleep
Acid erosion from diet (soft drinks, citrus), reflux, or eating disorders
Improper brushing with excessive force
A misaligned bite, putting pressure on certain teeth more than others
Age-related wear
Left untreated, worn teeth can lead to:
Tooth sensitivity
Jaw pain and TMJ issues
A collapsed bite or aged facial appearance
Difficulty chewing
🛠️ What Are Composite Build-Ups?
Composite build-ups use a tooth-coloured resin material to reshape and rebuild worn, chipped, or flattened teeth. It’s a minimally invasive option that helps restore both function and aesthetics.
Key Benefits:
No need to drill down healthy tooth structure
Restores your bite to a balanced, natural position
Can reduce TMJ strain and jaw muscle pain
Matches your natural tooth colour
Usually completed in 1–2 visits
🔍 Who Needs Composite Build-Ups?
You may be a candidate if:
Your teeth are visibly worn, chipped, or flattened
You suffer from jaw discomfort or headaches linked to bite problems
You’ve had orthodontic treatment that changed your bite
You clench or grind your teeth at night
A dental exam and bite assessment can determine if composite build-ups are the right solution for you.
🧠 Did You Know?
In many cases, composite build-ups are used in TMJ treatment to create a stable bite. When the teeth no longer meet properly, the jaw joints and muscles work harder—leading to pain and dysfunction. Rebuilding the bite can reduce muscle strain and help stabilize splint therapy results.
🛑 Is It a Permanent Solution?
Composite material can wear over time, especially in heavy grinders. You may eventually need:
Maintenance touch-ups
Reinforcement with porcelain crowns or veneers
A night splint to protect your restorations
Your dentist will guide you through a long-term care plan.
🪥 How to Care for Composite Build-Ups
Maintain excellent oral hygiene
Avoid biting hard objects like pens or ice
Wear a nightguard if recommended
Attend regular check-ups to monitor the build-ups and your bite
✅ Final Thoughts
Tooth wear is more than a cosmetic issue—it’s a functional problem that can affect your bite, jaw, and long-term oral health. Composite build-ups offer a conservative and effective solution to restore your teeth and relieve symptoms.
If you’re noticing signs of wear or discomfort, speak with your dentist about whether composite build-ups might be right for you.