Worn Down Teeth

Tooth wear is rarely caused by a single issue. It usually results from a combination of factors that build up over time. Understanding the underlying cause is critical in order to select the right treatment and stop the progression.

Some of the most common reasons include:

• Bruxism (tooth grinding or clenching) – A leading cause of wear. Often subconscious, it can happen at night or during periods of stress.

• Acid erosion – From dietary acids (such as citrus fruits or carbonated drinks), acid reflux, or eating disorders.

• Abrasion – Aggressive brushing or using hard toothbrushes can wear away enamel, particularly at the gumline.

• Age-related changes – Natural wear occurs over a lifetime, especially in the absence of proper prevention.

• Malocclusion – Misalignment of the bite can cause uneven pressure and result in accelerated wear of specific teeth.

By carefully assessing the wear pattern, Dr Malik is able to determine not just how to restore the teeth—but how to protect them moving forward.

Patients with worn down teeth may experience a range of symptoms, depending on the severity of the case. These include:

• Flattened, chipped, or shortened teeth

• Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods

• Difficulty chewing or discomfort in the bite

• Changes in facial profile or loss of vertical height in the smile

• Cracks or fractures in the teeth

• Discomfort or fatigue in the jaw muscles

• Frequent headaches or symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction

In many cases, the aesthetic changes are just the tip of the iceberg—there may be complex underlying issues affecting the bite, jaw movement, and dental health.

Tooth wear is not just a cosmetic issue. Left untreated, the enamel continues to erode, leading to:

• Exposure of the inner dentine, causing pain and sensitivity

• A higher risk of decay and infection

• Structural weakness, increasing the risk of fractures

• Altered bite and function, which can strain the jaw joints

• Accelerated ageing of the face due to loss of vertical dimension

Timely intervention is essential. With the right care, worn teeth can be rebuilt to their ideal form and function—preventing future complications and preserving oral health.

Dr Junaid Saleem Malik takes a comprehensive and highly personalised approach to managing tooth wear. His goal is never just to ‘patch up’ damaged teeth, but to fully understand the cause, restore what has been lost, and protect the results for the long term.

His approach typically follows several key steps:

Comprehensive Diagnosis

Dr Malik begins every case with an in-depth assessment. This includes:

• A full clinical examination and photographic documentation

• Digital facial and intraoral scans

• Bite analysis to understand how the jaws move and interact

• Functional and aesthetic evaluation of the smile

He also takes time to discuss your habits, dietary choices, lifestyle, and medical history to identify all contributing factors.

Functional and Aesthetic Planning

Once the causes are known, a tailored treatment plan is created. Planning includes:

• Digital smile design when aesthetic changes are desired

• Wax-ups or mock-ups to simulate the ideal tooth length, shape, and position

• Interdisciplinary planning, especially if orthodontics or TMJ therapy is needed

Patients are often shown visual previews of their treatment outcomes, helping them understand the vision and feel more confident moving forward with the proposed plan.

The aim of treatment is to rebuild the teeth to their optimal form—both in height and shape—while improving comfort and appearance.

Dr Malik offers a range of advanced treatments depending on the severity of the case:

Composite Bonding

In cases of mild to moderate wear, tooth-coloured resin can be directly applied and shaped to restore worn edges and improve function. This is a conservative solution, often done without drilling or anaesthesia. Composite bonding can be highly aesthetic and immediately improve both appearance and bite efficiency.

Porcelain Restorations

For more extensive wear, ceramic restorations such as veneers, onlays, or crowns may be required. These materials offer greater durability and are custom-designed to mimic the natural shape and shade of your original teeth.

Porcelain restorations are ideal for:

• Teeth that have lost significant structure

• Cases where long-term strength is needed

• Patients seeking a complete smile enhancement

Full Mouth Rehabilitation

In advanced cases where multiple teeth are affected and the bite has collapsed, Dr Malik may carry out a full mouth reconstruction. This involves restoring all teeth to their proper height, function, and appearance—potentially using a combination of advanced interdisciplinary techniques.

Dr Malik’s experience in complex restorative dentistry makes him particularly skilled in delivering these comprehensive treatments, with meticulous attention to detail.

Treating worn teeth is only the first step. Preventing further wear is equally important.

Dr Malik ensures every patient receives a long-term care plan that may include:

• Nightguards to protect against grinding and clenching

• Dietary advice to minimise exposure to erosive foods and drinks

• Oral hygiene guidance to avoid abrasion

• Regular reviews to monitor the condition of restorations and detect early signs of wear

Where needed, he may also collaborate with other specialists such as orthodontists, endodontists or periodontists to provide a fully integrated approach.

Patients often underestimate the emotional impact of worn down teeth. Many come to Dr Malik feeling self-conscious, uncomfortable, or unsure of how their teeth reached such a condition. What they discover through treatment is not just a stronger smile—but a renewed sense of confidence and wellbeing.

Thanks to Dr Malik’s specialist training and commitment to clinical excellence, patients benefit from:

• A careful diagnosis that explains the why behind the wear

• Restorative solutions that are both durable and beautiful

• Functional improvement that enhances chewing, speech, and comfort

• A smile that looks healthier, younger, and more balanced

Each treatment is entirely bespoke, planned with care, and carried out to the highest standards of precision. Dr Malik’s reputation for excellence in worn dentition cases has made him a trusted clinician for patients with complex needs.

If you’ve noticed your teeth getting shorter, flatter, or more sensitive, it’s time to seek expert advice. Worn teeth don’t have to be a lifelong problem—with the right treatment, they can be fully restored.

Schedule a consultation with Dr Junaid Saleem Malik today and take the first step toward a stronger, more confident smile.