Tooth wear is a gradual loss of tooth structure that often increases with age. Years ago, people expected to lose teeth as they grew older, but modern dentistry and improved oral health mean most of us can now keep our teeth for life. That makes it even more important to recognise and manage tooth wear early.
Today’s lifestyle habits — including acidic diets, energy drinks, and even brushing too hard — mean we’re seeing worn teeth in younger patients too. Tooth wear may seem harmless at first, but over time it can cause pain, sensitivity, functional problems, and changes to your smile’s appearance. At Renew Dental Lounge, we believe that prevention, early detection, and personalised treatment are the keys to protecting your smile.
The main causes of tooth wear
Tooth wear has three main causes. Sometimes a single factor is responsible, but often it’s a combination.
1. Erosion
Erosion happens when acids dissolve the tooth surface.
- Intrinsic acid comes from inside the body, such as stomach acid that reaches the mouth due to reflux, regurgitation, or vomiting.
- Extrinsic acid comes from outside sources such as soft drinks, fruit juices, wine, sports drinks, acidic medicines, or even exposure to acid in certain workplaces.
Erosion is one of the leading causes of tooth wear. Once acid softens enamel, the tooth becomes much more vulnerable to damage from brushing or grinding.
2. Abrasion
Abrasion occurs when the tooth surface is physically worn away by something other than another tooth. The most common cause is overzealous toothbrushing. Using a hard toothbrush, scrubbing too forcefully, or using abrasive toothpaste can slowly wear down enamel.
Other examples of abrasion include biting fingernails, opening packets with teeth, or using teeth to hold objects.
3. Attrition
Attrition is tooth wear caused by tooth-to-tooth contact. This usually happens from clenching or grinding (also called bruxism). Many people are unaware they grind their teeth at night, but common signs include morning headaches, jaw soreness, or flattened tooth edges.
The protective role of saliva
Saliva is one of your strongest natural defences against erosion and tooth wear. It helps dilute and neutralise acids, washes food particles away, and supplies minerals such as calcium and phosphate to rebuild enamel.
If saliva flow is reduced, the risk of tooth wear increases significantly. Common causes of dry mouth include:
- Ageing
- Medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, or sleeping tablets
- Medical conditions like diabetes or Sjögren’s syndrome
- Radiation therapy or chemotherapy
If you often feel thirsty, have difficulty swallowing dry foods, or wake with a dry mouth, reduced saliva flow could be increasing your risk of tooth wear.
Other risk factors for tooth wear
Tooth wear doesn’t happen in isolation. Other lifestyle or health factors can make you more susceptible, including:
- Frequent consumption of acidic foods and drinks (soft drinks, sports drinks, citrus fruits, pickles)
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
- Eating disorders such as bulimia
- Alcoholism
- Occupational risks (e.g., competitive swimmers, wine tasters, workers exposed to acidic fumes)
- Bruxism (grinding or clenching teeth)
- Chronic dehydration
Why tooth wear matters
Tooth wear is largely irreversible once it has progressed. That’s why early detection and prevention are so important.
Without treatment, worn teeth can lead to:
- Pain and sensitivity – from exposed dentine and nerves
- Poor appearance – teeth may look shorter, flattened, or discoloured
- Reduced function – making it harder to chew and sometimes even affecting speech
- Severe damage – in extreme cases, root canal treatment or crowns may be required
Even if you don’t feel pain, tooth wear may still be progressing silently. That’s why regular check-ups are essential.
Managing and treating tooth wear at Renew Dental Lounge
At Renew Dental Lounge in Upper Mount Gravatt, we take a personalised approach to managing tooth wear. Our goal is not just to stop further damage, but to restore your comfort, function, and confidence.
Step 1: Early detection
We check for signs of tooth wear at every routine appointment. Identifying the cause — whether acid, abrasion, or grinding — helps us create a treatment plan tailored to you.
Step 2: Preventive strategies
- Advice on diet and habits to minimise acid exposure
- Guidance on brushing technique and gentle oral care products
- Night guards for patients who grind their teethSaliva-boosting strategies or products if dry mouth is an issue
Step 3: Restorative and cosmetic options
For patients with advanced tooth wear, treatment may include:
- Dental bonding to rebuild worn edges
- Veneers or crowns to restore appearance and function
- Implants or bridges in severe cases of tooth loss
Every plan is designed to suit your lifestyle, needs, and long-term goals.
Dentistry done differently
We understand that tooth wear can be concerning, whether it’s new sensitivity, teeth that look shorter, or just not knowing what’s happening. At Renew Dental Lounge, we’ll take the time to listen, explain, and guide you through your options without pressure.
Because we believe dentistry should be done differently, you’ll always be treated with warmth, empathy, and genuine care.
FAQs about Tooth Wear
1. Can worn teeth grow back?
Unfortunately, once enamel is lost, it cannot regrow. However, worn teeth can be repaired with treatments such as bonding, veneers, or crowns to restore strength and appearance.
2. Is tooth wear the same as cavities?
No. Cavities are caused by bacteria, while tooth wear is usually due to acids, brushing habits, or grinding. Both can weaken teeth, but they require different treatments.
3. How do I know if I’m grinding my teeth?
Many people grind without realising it. Common signs include morning headaches, jaw pain, or flat edges on teeth. At Renew Dental Lounge, we can diagnose bruxism and provide custom night guards to protect your teeth.
4. What’s the best way to brush if I have worn teeth?
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, gentle circular motions, and a low-abrasion fluoride toothpaste. Avoid brushing immediately after acidic food or drinks — wait at least 30 minutes.
5. Can tooth wear be prevented?
Yes. Limiting acidic drinks, using a straw for soft drinks or juices, managing reflux, and wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth all help protect against further wear.
6. When should I see a dentist about tooth wear?
If you notice sensitivity, changes in tooth shape, or staining at the edges, book a check-up. Early treatment prevents complex dental problems later.
Take the next step towards protecting your smile
If you’re worried about worn teeth, or have noticed changes in tooth shape, staining at the edges or new sensitivity, book an appointment at Renew Dental Lounge in Upper Mount Gravatt. We’ll check for signs of tooth wear, identify the cause, and work with you to protect and restore your smile.
Back to learning centre
