What is lost?
Hard tooth tissue through external mechanical action.
← All explanationsDental abrasion
What does mechanical tooth wear mean?
Dental abrasion is the loss of hard tooth tissue through external mechanical action, such as unfavourable brushing habits or objects. It differs from tooth-to-tooth wear and acid-related erosion. Several influences can act together.
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External friction
Abrasion involves external mechanical action on the tooth. Highly abrasive care or repeated contact with objects can contribute.
Wear has several forms
Attrition results from tooth-to-tooth contact; erosion from non-bacterial acids. In the mouth, both processes may act alongside abrasion.
Look beyond the shape
A notch does not prove a particular cause. Examination and habits help explain it; gentle care aims to limit further loss.
At a glance
What can contribute?
Unfavourable brushing habits or repeated object contact, for example, often together with other influences.
What is assessed?
The location and extent of wear, symptoms, oral care and dietary habits. Protection against further loss follows these findings.
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Often confused
Abrasion, attrition or erosion?
Abrasion: external friction. Attrition: tooth-to-tooth contact. Erosion: non-bacterial acids. Several processes often act together.
Quick answers
Does every notch at the gumline mean bad brushing?
No. Shape alone does not establish the cause; several mechanical and chemical influences can contribute.
Does lost tooth tissue grow back?
Lost tooth shape does not simply grow back. How to protect or, if needed, restore it depends on the findings.
Should I stop brushing that area?
No. Cleaning remains important, but should be gentle and suited to the situation.
At the practice
For your consultation
A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:
Which influences contribute to my tooth wear, and what can I change in daily life?
At the practice, the findings, personal wishes and possible next steps are discussed through a consultation and examination.
Visible notches or increasing sensitivity should be examined.
Discuss tooth wearChoose an appointment on DoctolibLearning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge
Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.
- Abrasion
- Mechanical loss of tooth tissue through external action.
- Attrition
- Tissue loss through contact between teeth.
- Non-carious defect
- Loss of hard tooth tissue not caused by decay.
Know the difference
The shape of a defect alone cannot establish a brushing technique or one particular cause.
Sources and context
Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.