Worn Teeth

Teeth naturally change throughout life, but sometimes the amount or pattern of wear becomes greater than we would expect.

Tooth wear can develop gradually over many years and often goes unnoticed until teeth begin to look shorter, feel sensitive, develop cracks or start to affect the way the bite functions.

At Station St Dental, our first priority isn’t simply to rebuild worn teeth. It is to understand why they are wearing and whether that process is still active.

The chipped and worn teeth - Station St Dental

Why Do Teeth Wear?

Tooth wear usually results from one or a combination of different processes.
Attrition occurs when teeth wear against other teeth. Grinding or clenching can contribute, although the relationship between tooth wear and bruxism isn’t always straightforward.

Erosion occurs when acids progressively dissolve tooth structure. These acids may come from the diet or, in some patients, from gastric reflux or other medical factors.

Abrasion describes tooth structure being worn away by external mechanical factors, such as particular brushing habits.

In many patients, several factors are operating at the same time.

How Do We Assess Tooth Wear?

We consider not only how much tooth structure has been lost, but also the pattern of wear and what may be causing it.

Assessment may include:

Clinical examination
Evaluation of the bite and jaw function
Dental photographs
Digital scanning
Review of existing fillings and restorations
Discussion of grinding or clenching habits
Dietary and acid exposure
Relevant medical factors

Digital scanning can be particularly useful because it allows us to create an accurate three-dimensional record of the teeth. Future scans can then help determine whether wear is progressing or remains relatively stable.

Does Tooth Wear Always Need Treatment?

No.

Some tooth wear is compatible with normal ageing and may simply require monitoring.
Where active wear is identified, addressing the underlying cause is usually more important than immediately restoring the teeth. Depending on the individual situation, this might involve dietary advice, managing acid exposure, improving brushing technique or using an occlusal splint where appropriate.

Treatment should be proportionate to the problem.

Restoring Worn Teeth

When wear has resulted in significant loss of tooth structure, sensitivity, functional problems or aesthetic concerns, restorative treatment may be considered.

Depending on the extent of wear, options can include:

Composite bonding
Bonded ceramic restorations
Ceramic veneers
Crowns
Replacement of failing existing restorations
More comprehensive rehabilitation where multiple teeth are involved

Where possible, we favour additive and conservative approaches that preserve remaining natural tooth structure.

For more advanced tooth wear, treatment may involve carefully rebuilding several teeth to restore their shape, function and relationship within the bite.

Planning for the Long Term

Worn teeth can often be managed very successfully, but the appropriate treatment varies enormously between patients.

For some people, careful monitoring is all that is required. For others, controlling the cause and protecting the teeth may be appropriate. And where significant tooth structure has already been lost, carefully planned restorative treatment can restore function and appearance.

The important first step is understanding what has happened, why it has happened and whether it is continuing.

Why Choose Station St Dental?

Truly Holistic Dental Care

At Station St Dental, we treat more than just your teeth - we care for your complete oral health. Our approach takes into account everything that could impact your smile, from breathing and lifestyle habits to personal goals and even work-related factors. We look at the full picture to provide the most effective, personalised care possible.

Integrated, Multi-Disciplinary Dentistry

Our experienced dentists are skilled in a wide range of dental treatments, allowing us to offer comprehensive care under one roof. From preventive and general dentistry to more complex procedures, we’re equipped to manage the oral health needs of the whole family.

To ensure we stay ahead of the curve, our entire team - including our friendly front desk staff - regularly attends professional development courses. We’re committed to learning the latest advancements in dental care and proudly use cutting-edge equipment and technology in our clinic.

A Comfortable, Family-Friendly Environment

We know that visiting the dentist can be stressful for some. That’s why we go above and beyond to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where patients of all ages feel safe and at ease. With calming background music throughout the practice, we aim to make every appointment as pleasant as possible.

Family-Focused Dentistry

Families are at the heart of what we do. Whether it’s your toddler’s first dental check-up, orthodontic care for your teen, or cosmetic treatments for you - we tailor our approach to suit each family member’s individual needs.

It’s not uncommon for families to schedule their appointments together, making it easy and convenient to manage everyone’s oral health in one visit.

Plus, eligible children may access up to $1,132 in dental care over two years through the Medicare Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) - making quality care more accessible when you need it most.