When your teeth do not meet properly and you have ground down your teeth so they are shorter to compensate, it can give us a tricky situation to deal with. This person had top teeth fitting too far over the bottom front teeth and were doing damage to the palate.
What Is The Dahl Concept?
The Dahl concept is a well-established approach for creating space in the bite where teeth have worn down. Rather than drilling away healthy tooth structure, the dentist adds material to selected teeth – usually tooth-coloured composite, similar to composite tooth bonding – so that only those teeth touch at first. Over the following weeks and months, the rest of the teeth gradually settle back into contact, leaving a healthier, more stable bite.
Because it is additive and conservative, the Dahl approach can often avoid more invasive options such as multiple crowns.
Building Upper & Lower Tooth Thickness and Height
Dr Tom built up the upper and lower front teeth to give the uppers extra thickness and the lowers extra height to allow this gentleman to have a much better functional bite. The back teeth were allowed to come back to touching naturally. Within three months all the back teeth were meeting again. This means fewer ulcers and sore spots on the palate, less time breaking down his teeth and less time having constant repairs to his natural teeth.
Signs Your Bite May Need Attention
Worn teeth and a deep bite often develop slowly, so they can be easy to miss. Common signs include:
- Front teeth that look shorter, flatter or more chipped than they used to
- Upper front teeth that close down over the lower teeth, sometimes catching the gum or palate
- Sore spots or ulcers on the roof of the mouth
- Fillings or repairs on the front teeth that keep breaking
If any of these sound familiar, a routine oral health check is a good place to start. We can assess your bite and talk you through the options.
Book A Consultation At 41 South Bar
Our dental team in Banbury treats worn teeth and bite problems with conservative, long-lasting approaches wherever possible. You can see more of our work in our case studies, or call us on 01295 262008 to book your appointment.