Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. Enamel is very resistant to being worn down but in certain conditions (especially in an acidic environment), this protective enamel can be lost exposing the softer dentine layer underneath. This dentine layer is prone to wearing down even more rapidly.

Only a few millimetres of tooth wear will upset the overall aesthetic proportions of the teeth (see diagram below). Worn down front teeth also appear very flat.They have lost the youthful “stepped” appearance where the 2 central incisors are the most prominent teeth in the smile. This can give the illusion of premature ageing.

Depending on the complexity of the case; resin bonding, porcelain veneers, porcelain crowns or a combination of all can be used to restore a smile.