Diagnosis and management of maxillary incisors affected by incisal wear: an interdisciplinary case report.

UNLABELLED: In the attempt to restore anterior teeth affected by erosion and bruxism, many clinicians have been frustrated with the constant restorative failures. Frequently, these failures are attributed to the restorative materials employed, especially in cases in which composite resins are used. However, some flaws of the restorations are related to the oversight of occlusal principles. The purpose of this article is to discuss the etiology, signs, and symptoms of incisal wear, with special attention to that caused by bruxism and chemical erosion. Relatively simple management techniques (e.g., occlusal adjustment, adhesive restorations) are proposed, and the diagnosis and management of a representative clinical case is presented. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: In some cases of bruxism and/or dental erosion, it is possible to acquire space to recuperate the esthetics and function of maxillary incisors affected by incisal wear through a conservative treatment associated with the control of the etiologic factors.