Dental Attrition: Causes, Symptoms & Best Treatments Healthy teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but everyday habits, ageing, and certain oral conditions can slowly wear them down. One of the most common—and often overlooked—forms of tooth wear is dental attrition . It develops gradually and silently, but if left untreated, it can lead to tooth sensitivity, enamel loss, bite problems, and even tooth fractures. At Smiline Dental Clinic , we regularly treat patients with dental attrition and help them restore their smiles with advanced, patient-friendly, and long-lasting treatments. What Is Dental Attrition? Dental attrition is the gradual wearing down of tooth surfaces due to constant tooth-to-tooth contact. Unlike erosion (caused by acids) or abrasion (caused by external objects like toothbrushes), attrition happens explicitly when your upper and lower teeth rub or grind against each other. If untreated, attrition can lead to: Severe tooth sensitivity Loss of tooth height and flattened chewing surfaces Reduced chewing efficiency Cracks, fractures, and changes in facial appearance due to bite collapse Causes of Dental Attrition 1. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching) Bruxism is the most common cause. Grinding can exert up to 250 pounds of force, rapidly wearing away enamel. If you wake up with jaw pain or headaches, Bruxism could be the cause. 2. Malocclusion (Improper Bite) If your teeth do not align properly, the pressure becomes uneven. Some teeth may withstand more force than others, leading to abnormal wear patterns. • • • • 1 of 2 3. Habitual Chewing & Enamel Weakness Habits like chewing ice or biting nails increase friction. Additionally, genetics, nutritional deficiencies, or conditions like acid reflux can cause softer enamel, making it more vulnerable to attrition. Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore Flattened or Shiny Teeth: Teeth may appear flat, smooth, or shorter than before. Increased Sensitivity: As dentin becomes exposed, teeth react to hot, cold, or sweet foods. Chipped Teeth: Thin enamel weakens the tooth structure, increasing the risk of chips. Jaw Pain & Headaches: Often associated with nighttime grinding and muscle fatigue. Best Treatment Options The treatment depends on the severity of wear and the underlying cause. At Smiline Dental Hospitals , we follow a holistic approach: Night Guards: Custom-made appliances that prevent further enamel wear and reduce jaw pain by protecting teeth during sleep. Dental Bonding: Restores tooth shape and covers exposed dentin for mild attrition. Dental Crowns & Veneers: For moderate to severe wear, porcelain or zirconia restorations rebuild tooth height, improve chewing ability, and enhance aesthetics. Orthodontic Treatment: Clear aligners or braces can correct malocclusion, distributing chewing forces evenly. Full-Mouth Rehabilitation: A comprehensive approach combining crowns, bridges, and bite correction to restore function and bite harmony. Why Choose Smiline? At Smiline , we combine advanced digital dentistry (CAD-CAM crowns, precision bite analysis) with highly experienced prosthodontists. If you notice signs of attrition, timely intervention can prevent long-term complications and preserve your natural teeth. Source: Smiline Dental Clinic | Contact: +91-9628000815 • • • • 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 2 of 2