Over time, this can lead to what is known as bite collapse, where the natural height and balance of the bite are lost. This is a gradual process and often develops without pain, which is why it can go unnoticed for many years.
Patients with tooth wear and bite collapse often say:
These concerns are valid and usually relate to changes in how the teeth are functioning together.
Back to Worn Teeth & Bite Rehabilitation
Assessment may include:
The aim is to understand why the wear has occurred before deciding how to manage it.
Treatment is rarely about fixing individual teeth in isolation. It often involves:
Treatment is commonly staged, allowing assessment of comfort and function at each step.
Tooth wear occurs when the enamel and underlying tooth structure gradually wear away.
This may be caused by:
Early tooth wear can often be managed conservatively. More advanced wear requires careful planning.
Bite collapse refers to a loss of the normal height and support of the bite due to worn, missing, or failing teeth.
This can affect:
Common signs include shorter-looking teeth, facial changes, and repeated breakage of dental work.
Tooth wear with bite collapse is considered a complex dental problem.
At Harcourt Dental Clinic, assessment, planning, and coordination of this type of treatment is carried out by Dr Kevin Gilmore. The focus is on understanding the problem fully, explaining options clearly, and introducing changes in a controlled and predictable way.
Changing the bite is significant and should not be rushed. Careful planning helps to:
Tooth wear and bite collapse develop slowly, but they can be managed successfully. The key is careful planning, realistic expectations, and staged treatment rather than quick fixes.
We’re proud to be a trusted part of our patients’ oral health journeys. Explore their testimonials to see how we’re creating positive dental experiences – one smile at a time.
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I required some extensive dental work, which I had been catastrophising in my head for some time now. Having finally plucked up the courage, I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been cared for so professionally & competently by Lorna…
I had a great experience with Lorna. She was very competent, gentle and took the time to explain everything clearly. I’d highly recommend Lorna to anyone who feels anxious about visiting the dentist!
I’ve been a patient at Harcourt Dental Clinic for about 5 years now, and I couldn’t be happier with the service I’ve received. From the friendly and welcoming staff to the professional and skilled dentists, every visit has been a…
Martina is an excellent hygienist, professional, kind, and thorough. She made me feel completely at ease and did a fantastic job with my cleaning. I highly recommend her!
I would highly recommend this dental practice. They are very professional in every sense. Special shout-out for Cianna & Kevin, two highly skilled dentists.
I strongly recommend this dental practice. The reception staff are always friendly and polite. Dr Lorna Mahon and her assistant have been excellent in treating a quite difficult dental issue with great care and professionalism.
If you have a broken tooth or a cracked tooth, contact us for an assessment and a clear plan.
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