Why your teeth may not last as long as you do

Tooth wear is the term used to describe the progressive loss of a tooth’s surface due to actions other than those which cause tooth decay or dental trauma. Tooth wear increases with age. The amount of tooth wear we see now is considerably greater than in the past due to the fact that more people are now retaining their natural teeth into old age. Tooth wear is caused by three phenomena: erosion, attrition and abrasion.

Since these conditions are irreversible, the focus of intervention management includes lifestyle and diet changes, and, if necessary, restorative treatment to halt the progression.