Symptoms, explained
Worn teeth and grinding: what’s slowly wearing them down
Wear, chipped edges or morning jaw discomfort can have several causes. Grinding, clenching, acid exposure and brushing habits may contribute. We assess the pattern and discuss protection before deciding whether repairs are needed.
This page can’t diagnose you. Similar symptoms can have different causes. A dentist uses your history, an examination and any appropriate tests to explain what is happening and what care you need.
Toothache right now? Call reception to check the next available appointment.
Call nowGo to an emergency department NOW — don’t wait for us — if you have: swelling under the tongue or into the neck, difficulty swallowing or breathing, an eye swelling shut, or rapidly spreading facial swelling with fever. These are medical emergencies first and dental problems second.
Flattened teeth or morning tenderness
Grinding or clenching is one possibility, but tooth wear and jaw symptoms need assessment. A fitted guard may help protect teeth; it does not ensure relief of muscle or joint pain.
Permanent reshaping of teeth is not a routine treatment for grinding or unexplained jaw pain. A separate problem, such as a newly high filling, needs its own diagnosis.
What you should do
Contact reception to arrange an assessment and describe your symptoms. Ask how soon you should be seen; new swelling, severe pain or an injury needs urgent advice.
Thin edges or changes in tooth shape
Acid exposure and other causes can contribute to wear. The dentist may ask about diet, reflux, medicines and habits to help identify the cause. Managing the cause matters before replacing lost tooth structure.
What you should do
Arrange a dental assessment to discuss the cause and options. Tell reception if pain, swelling, injury or a recent change makes the problem more urgent.
Notches near the gumline
These may involve wear, gum recession or other factors. Ask about brushing technique and sensitivity care; the appearance alone does not identify a single cause.
- A filling may be useful for a damaged or sensitive area after assessment.
What you should do
Arrange a dental assessment to discuss the cause and options. Tell reception if pain, swelling, injury or a recent change makes the problem more urgent.
Jaw pain, clicking or tired muscles
Tooth protection and treatment of jaw pain are different questions. The clinician checks for dental and non-dental causes and starts with appropriate conservative care. A splint should not permanently change your bite, and pain while using one needs review.
What you should do
Contact reception to arrange an assessment and describe your symptoms. Ask how soon you should be seen; new swelling, severe pain or an injury needs urgent advice.
Repairing teeth that are already worn
The aim is to address the causes and protect function. Monitoring, small repairs or more involved restorations may be discussed depending on the findings and your priorities.
- A crown or another restoration may be suitable where significant tooth structure has been lost. The dentist explains alternatives, risks and maintenance.
What you should do
Arrange a dental assessment to discuss the cause and options. Tell reception if pain, swelling, injury or a recent change makes the problem more urgent.
What it costs
We quote before we treat. Ask reception about consultation fees and your medical aid. Cover depends on your scheme, plan and available benefits; co-payments may apply. Confirm benefits and any required authorisation before treatment.
On a medical aid? Understand medical aid and treatment quotes — then check your plan’s benefits and any authorisation with your scheme. A benefit check is not a guarantee of payment.
Related dental guides
Sources for this guide
General patient information supports this guide. Your dentist assesses your own symptoms, treatment and aftercare; overseas service numbers and payment rules do not apply here.
Not sure which pattern is yours?
Tell reception what you’re feeling and ask for an appointment. Reception confirms availability and your date and time. After-hours messages are reviewed when the practice reopens; urgent symptoms should not wait for a reply.