A guide to the clinical management of attrition

Key Points Discusses aetiology of attrition. Discusses signs and symptoms of attrition. Discusses clinical management of attrition including adhesive and conventional techniques. Attrition is an enigmatic condition often found in older individuals and often as a result of bruxism which can take place as a result of either day bruxism, night bruxism or both. Various studies and systemic reviews clearly shown that tooth wear is an age-related phenomena and the last Adult Dental Health Survey showed that 15% of participants showed moderate wear and 3% severe wear with 80% of patients over 50 years of age showing signs of wear. This review examines current theories around the aetiological factors contributing to attrition together with the clinical management of attrition focusing on minimal intervention where possible.