Worn Down Teeth – Causes & Treatment in Basingstoke
Worn down teeth can happen slowly over time, often without you noticing – until one day, your teeth feel shorter, more sensitive, or their shape looks different in the mirror. If your bite no longer feels comfortable or you're experiencing discomfort when eating or drinking, it could be a sign that your teeth are being worn down.
Worn teeth don’t just affect how your smile looks – they can also impact how your jaw functions, your comfort when eating, and your overall dental health. Our focus is on conservative, well-planned treatment that helps you regain confidence and maintain long-term stability.
What Causes Teeth to Wear Down?
At Hampshire Dental Care, we help patients with worn teeth restore both the function and appearance of their smile with tailored, expert treatment. Whether your wear is caused by grinding, acid erosion, or long-term habits, we’ll take the time to understand your situation and offer solutions that not only repair the damage, but protect your teeth for the future.
There are a few common causes of tooth wear, and it’s not always linked to poor oral hygiene. Some of the most frequent include:
Bruxism (grinding or clenching)
Often unconscious, this habit puts excessive pressure on the teeth and gradually wears down the enamel.
Acid erosion
Frequent exposure to acidic food, drinks or acid reflux can soften the enamel, making it more prone to wear.
Tooth-to-tooth contact
Misaligned teeth or an uneven bite can cause excessive pressure in certain areas, speeding up wear.
Hard brushing
Using a hard-bristled brush or aggressive brushing technique can slowly erode enamel, particularly near the gum line.
Age and long-term wear
Natural ageing can cause some gradual flattening or shortening of the teeth.
If untreated, tooth wear can lead to sensitivity, increased risk of decay, and even changes to your facial profile as the bite collapses. That’s why it’s important to assess the cause as well as the damage.
Symptoms of Worn Down Teeth
You may notice:
Teeth appearing shorter or flatter
Translucent or thinned edges
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
Rough or uneven surfaces
Discomfort when chewing
Changes in the way your teeth meet or your bite feels
Sometimes, the signs are subtle – especially in the early stages – so we always examine your bite and wear patterns carefully at routine check-ups.
How We Treat Worn Teeth
Treatment depends on the cause and extent of the wear. We’ll begin with a full assessment, including digital imaging if needed, to understand your bite, enamel condition and any contributing factors. Based on this, we may recommend:
Composite Bonding
For mild to moderate wear, we can rebuild worn areas using tooth-coloured resin. This restores the shape, strength, and protection of the teeth in a minimally invasive way.
Crowns or Onlays
If the wear is more extensive or the tooth is structurally compromised, we may recommend a crown tooth or custom onlay. These cover and protect the tooth while restoring function and aesthetics.
Bite Adjustment or Orthodontics
If an uneven bite is contributing to the wear, adjusting the bite or exploring teeth straightening (such as Invisalign) may be advised to prevent further damage.
Night Guard (Splint)
For patients who grind their teeth, a custom-fitted night guard can protect the enamel while you sleep and reduce pressure on the jaw joints.
Diet and Hygiene Advice
If acid erosion is a factor, we’ll guide you on how to reduce acid exposure and protect your enamel with at-home care and professional support.
We’ll always recommend the most conservative and cost-effective option that suits your situation, and we’ll take the time to explain every step clearly.
Why Treat Tooth Wear Early?
Addressing worn teeth early can help avoid more complex – and costly – treatment later. It also:
- Prevents further damage to tooth structure
- Reduces sensitivity and discomfort
- Improves the appearance of your smile
- Restores a balanced bite
- Supports long-term oral and jaw health
At Hampshire Dental Care, we’re focused on long-term results, not just quick fixes. We’ll always talk through your options carefully, giving you the knowledge to make informed choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for teeth to wear down as I age?
Some wear is natural over time, but excessive or uneven wear should be checked. If you’ve noticed sudden changes in shape or sensitivity, it’s worth booking a consultation.
Can worn down teeth be rebuilt?
Yes. Depending on the level of wear, we can use bonding, crowns, or other techniques to rebuild and protect the teeth.
Will I need a full set of crowns?
Not necessarily. We only recommend crowns where the tooth is too damaged for simpler repair. Often, just a few teeth need restoring or reshaping.
Do night guards really help?
Absolutely. For patients who grind their teeth, wearing a custom night guard can significantly reduce wear and protect any dental work you’ve had done.
What if I don’t treat worn teeth?
Worn teeth can become more sensitive, prone to decay, and harder to restore the longer they’re left. Early intervention is typically simpler and more affordable.
If your teeth are looking flatter, feeling more sensitive, or just not quite right, we’re here to help. Book a consultation at our Basingstoke practice and let’s take a closer look – together we can plan a solution that restores your smile with comfort and confidence.
