Restorative & Tooth Problems
Tooth wear
Gradual loss of tooth surface from grinding, acid or rubbing.
Causes
Grinding, acid, abrasion
Signs
Shorter, sensitive teeth
First step
Find the cause
Options
Guard or restorations
Overview
Tooth wear is the slow loss of the tooth surface over time. It can come from grinding, acidic food and drink, or hard brushing, and often more than one cause is involved.
Mild wear is normal with age. Heavier wear can make teeth look shorter, feel sensitive, or change how your teeth fit together.
What to know
- Caused by grinding, acid or hard brushing
- Often more than one cause is at work
- Teeth may look shorter or feel sensitive
- Finding the cause helps stop further wear
- Treatment ranges from a night guard to restorations
Common questions
Is some tooth wear normal?
Yes. A small amount of wear is normal with age. Faster or heavier wear is worth checking.
Can worn teeth be repaired?
Yes. Depending on the wear, options range from bonding to crowns or veneers.
How do I stop it getting worse?
Treating the cause is key, such as a night guard for grinding or reducing acidic drinks.
Why do my teeth look shorter?
Worn enamel slowly reduces tooth height, which can make teeth look shorter over time.
Related topics
Tooth erosion
Tooth surface dissolved by acid from food, drinks or the stomach.
Toothbrush abrasion
Tooth surface worn away by rubbing, often from hard brushing.
Bruxism (grinding & clenching)
Grinding or clenching your teeth, often during sleep and without knowing.
Sensitive teeth
Short, sharp tooth pain from cold, heat, sweet or touch.
Dr Rick Iskandar · Reviewed June 2026