Why Teeth Wear Down Over Time (and How to Prevent It)

Dr. Christopher Omeltschenko
Mon, 13 Apr 2026 16:48:31 +0000
Uncategorized

Have you noticed your teeth looking flatter or more worn than they used to? While some wear is natural with age, uneven or accelerated wear can cause sensitivity, cracks, and long-term dental problems. Understanding why teeth wear down helps protect your smile.

What Is Tooth Wear?

Tooth wear is the gradual loss of enamel and dentin over time. While normal wear is expected, excessive wear can compromise oral health.

Common causes include:

Grinding or clenching teeth (bruxism)

Misaligned bite

Acid erosion from diet or reflux

Age-related changes

Signs of Tooth Wear

Flattened or uneven teeth

Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods

Cracks or chips

Shortened teeth

How Dentists Evaluate Tooth Wear

Comprehensive oral exam

Bite analysis for uneven forces

X-rays to evaluate enamel and dentin loss

Review of dental history and habits

Treatment and Prevention Options

Nightguards for bruxism

Bite adjustments

Restorative treatments (crowns, veneers)

Diet and lifestyle modifications

Preventing excessive tooth wear preserves your bite, protects teeth, and supports lifelong oral health.

Call 513-245-2200 to schedule an appointment at Total Dentistry Cincinnati to evaluate your bite and prevent tooth wear before it becomes a problem.