You have wedge-shaped notches at your gum line — not cavities, not notches from brushing. That could be abfraction, caused by flexing of the tooth under stress. Here's what the research says.

Abfraction is a form of tooth wear that creates V-shaped or wedge-shaped lesions at the gum line. Unlike cavities, these notches are hard and shiny. Unlike abrasion, they're not caused by your toothbrush. The current scientific view is that abfraction comes from mechanical stress that bends the tooth.

What Causes Abfraction?

When you bite down, force travels through your tooth. If the forces are uneven — from a misaligned bite, clenching, or grinding — the tooth flexes slightly at the neck, where the crown meets the root. Over time, this flexing causes microscopic damage. The enamel and dentine crack and break away, leaving a wedge-shaped notch.

Think of it like a metal pole being bent repeatedly. The damage isn't from rubbing — it's from metal fatigue. Your tooth is a living structure that flexes under load.

Abfraction vs Abrasion vs Erosion

These three often work together, and it can be hard to tell them apart. Abrasion comes from external friction — your toothbrush, toothpaste, or habits. Erosion comes from acid dissolving enamel. Abfraction comes from internal stress flexing the tooth itself.

In reality, most patients have a combination. A misaligned bite creates abfraction lesions. Then abrasive brushing wears them wider. Acid erosion softens the area and makes it wear faster. Your dentist can identify which factors are driving your tooth wear.

Can Abfraction Be Treated?

Yes. The first step is addressing the cause. If your bite is misaligned, orthodontic treatment or bite adjustment can reduce the stress on your teeth. If you grind or clench, a night guard protects your teeth from further damage.

The notch itself can be filled with a tooth-coloured composite resin. This restores appearance and protects exposed dentine, which reduces sensitivity. The filling is bonded to your tooth and can withstand normal chewing forces.

The key is catching it early. Small abfraction lesions are easy to restore. Large ones can compromise the structural integrity of your tooth.

Call 01323 723757 or book at www.meadsdental.com Meads Village Dental Practice