If you’ve noticed your teeth looking smaller, flatter, or more yellow than they used to be, it’s not your imagination — it could be a sign of dental attrition. Many people shrug it off as a normal part of getting older, but there’s more to it than simple wear and tear. Dental attrition isn’t just cosmetic — it can gradually change the shape of your smile, reduce function, and even cause tooth sensitivity or cracks if left unmanaged. In this blog, we’ll explain what dental attrition is, how it affects your oral health, and what you can do about it.
What Is Dental Attrition and How Does It Start?
Dental attrition is the gradual loss of tooth structure caused by tooth-to-tooth contact. It typically occurs on the biting surfaces of teeth, especially the molars and front incisors. Unlike erosion (caused by acid) or abrasion (caused by brushing), attrition happens due to constant friction between your teeth — most commonly from grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism.
It’s something that tends to develop over time, especially if you unknowingly grind your teeth while sleeping or have an unbalanced bite.
What Makes Dental Attrition Different From Other Tooth Wear?
While all forms of tooth wear can damage enamel, dental attrition has its own unique features and causes. Here’s how it compares:
Comparison of Tooth Wear Types
| Feature | Attrition | Abrasion | Erosion |
| Cause | Tooth-to-tooth contact | Mechanical friction (e.g. brushing) | Acidic foods/drinks or reflux |
| Location | Biting surfaces (occlusal/incisal) | Gumline (cervical area) | Smooth surface enamel (anywhere) |
| Common signs | Flattened/short teeth | Notches near the gumline | Cupping, thinning, smooth texture |
| Reversible? | No | No | No |
| Prevention approach | Bite correction, nightguards | Proper brushing, soft toothbrush | Reduce acid exposure, use fluoride |
What Are the Early Signs That My Teeth Are Wearing Down?
Identifying dental attrition early can prevent larger and more costly issues. Look out for the following changes:
- Teeth that look flatter or shorter than before
- Yellowing, as enamel wears away and dentine shows through
- Tooth sensitivity when eating or drinking
- Tiny cracks or chips on tooth edges
- A change in the way your teeth fit together
- Increased wear on fillings or dental restorations
What Causes Dental Attrition in the First Place?
Attrition isn’t random. There are several contributing factors, often working together:
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) – usually during sleep and often linked to stress
- Misaligned bite – uneven pressure on certain teeth can speed up wear
- Ageing – natural wear accumulates over decades
- Tight jaw clenching – often subconscious during the day or while lifting heavy items
- Habits – such as chewing pens, fingernails, or ice
Even people with otherwise healthy teeth can develop attrition if these risk factors go unchecked.
Can Grinding Really Damage My Teeth That Much?
Absolutely. Regular grinding puts significant pressure on your teeth — up to 200 pounds of force in some cases. Over time, this can:
- Flatten your tooth edges
- Crack or chip enamel
- Create uneven tooth wear
- Cause jaw pain or tension headaches
- Contribute to Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) issues
You might not even know you grind your teeth unless your dentist spots the signs, or someone hears you doing it in your sleep.
What Happens If I Don’t Do Anything About It?
Ignoring dental attrition can lead to more than cosmetic changes. Left untreated, it may result in:
- Weakened teeth – more prone to fractures or chips
- Loss of vertical height – affecting your smile and facial structure
- Sensitivity – due to exposed dentine
- Jaw pain – from changes in how your teeth come together
- Increased dental work – restorations may wear down faster
The earlier it’s addressed, the easier (and more cost-effective) it is to manage.
What Treatments Are Available for Dental Attrition?
Treatment depends on how advanced the wear is. Your dentist will assess the damage and recommend options like:
- Nightguards (Occlusal Splints) – to prevent further wear while sleeping
- Composite Fillings or Bonding – to rebuild small areas of lost enamel
- Porcelain Veneers – thin, tooth-coloured covers to restore front teeth
- Dental Crowns – for more severe damage, offering full coverage protection
- Orthodontics – to fix misaligned bites causing uneven wear
A comprehensive plan may include more than one approach to restore your teeth and prevent future damage.
Can I Prevent My Teeth from Wearing Down More?
Yes — and often with simple, practical steps. Here are some effective ways to prevent further dental attrition:
- Get fitted for a custom nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Visit your dentist regularly to monitor wear and catch issues early
- Address your bite alignment with orthodontics if needed
- Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or nails
- Manage stress to reduce jaw clenching or grinding
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid overbrushing
Prevention is always better than cure, and acting early can preserve your smile for the long term.
Why Trust M&M Dental Care With Your Smile?
At M&M Dental Care, we understand how concerning it can be when you start noticing changes in your smile. Whether it’s a slight flattening of the teeth or ongoing sensitivity, our expert team is here to help. We take a thorough approach to diagnosing the cause of dental wear and offer modern, effective solutions — from custom nightguards to full-mouth restorative options.
Our focus is not just on fixing the problem, but on helping you understand why it’s happening and how to protect your teeth moving forward. When you visit M&M Dental Care, you’re not just another patient — you’re cared for like family. Let us help you maintain the comfort, function, and appearance of your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Dental Attrition Something I Should Worry About?
Yes, if left untreated, it can cause long-term damage, including sensitivity, cracking, and changes to your facial appearance.
Q2: Can Children Get Dental Attrition?
It’s more common in adults, but children who grind their teeth can also show early signs of attrition.
Q3: How Can I Tell If I Grind My Teeth at Night?
You may notice jaw pain in the morning, headaches, or worn teeth. A dentist can also spot signs during an exam.
Q4: Will Dental Attrition Stop on Its Own?
Not usually. Unless the cause (like grinding) is addressed, the wear typically continues.
Q5: Do I Need Treatment If My Teeth Are Just a Little Worn?
Even mild cases may need monitoring or preventive care to avoid progression.
Q6: How Long Does It Take to Fix Worn Teeth?
Treatment time varies depending on the severity and the type of restoration chosen. Your marsden park dentist can give a personalised timeline after assessment.
References
- https://skeenapublishers.com/journal/ijoh/IJOH-02-00011.pdf
- https://springorchid.com.au/what-is-dental-attrition
- https://www.edentalperth.net.au/treatment-options-for-worn-dentition
- https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-health
- https://dentalhealth.org/tooth-wear
