Why teeth wear down over time
Tooth wear is very common. Many patients are not aware it is happening until their teeth start to look shorter, flatter, or feel more sensitive.
Wear can happen for several reasons. Grinding or clenching, acidic foods and drinks, and changes in bite can all play a part. In most cases it develops slowly and often without pain.
Why some restorations can look artificial
One of the biggest concerns patients raise is whether restoring worn teeth will make their smile look false or overdone.
This can happen when:
- Teeth are made too long or too white
- The shape does not match the face or age
- Too much tooth structure is removed
- The bite is not carefully considered
Natural looking dentistry relies on careful planning rather than quick fixes.
How worn teeth can be restored naturally
Restoring worn teeth does not always mean dramatic change. In many cases the aim is to rebuild what has been lost while keeping the smile subtle and believable.
Options may include:
- Composite bonding to rebuild worn edges in a minimally invasive way
- Porcelain restorations designed to copy natural enamel and tooth shape
- Tooth straightening to improve how teeth meet and reduce further wear
- Protective measures such as night guards where grinding is involved
Often a combination of approaches works best.
Why age appropriate results matter
Teeth naturally change over time. A smile that suits someone in their twenties may not look right later in life.
When restoring worn teeth, factors such as tooth length, texture, colour and translucency all need to be considered. The goal is for the teeth to look healthy and balanced rather than new or artificial.
Planning is key
With Matt Dash Dentist in Edinburgh’s West End, restoring worn teeth starts with understanding why the wear has happened. From there, treatment can be planned in a way that protects the teeth and supports long term stability.
In some cases, doing less achieves a better result. Small changes can make a big difference when they are well thought out.
Next steps
If you are concerned about tooth wear or changes in your smile, a conversation is often the best place to start.
👉 You can arrange a complimentary e consultation with award winning dentist Matt Dash to discuss your options and what may be suitable for you.
Helpful resource
For further reading on restorative dentistry and tooth wear, the British Society for Restorative Dentistry provides useful patient information.
