What is the term for the wear of teeth caused by grinding during bruxism?

The term that describes the wear of teeth caused by grinding during bruxism is attrition. This refers specifically to the mechanical wear that occurs when the biting surfaces of teeth come into contact with each other due to grinding or clenching movements. During bruxism, the repeated friction results in a loss of tooth structure, leading to smooth, flattened surfaces, particularly on the occlusal (biting) surfaces of the teeth.

Erosion refers to the chemically induced loss of tooth structure due to acidic substances, which is not related to the mechanical action of grinding. Abrasion is wear caused by external factors, such as aggressive brushing with a hard toothbrush or the use of abrasive toothpaste. Abfraction describes the loss of tooth structure at the gum line, typically attributed to flexural forces on the tooth rather than direct grinding action. Understanding these distinct definitions helps clarify how attrition specifically relates to bruxism and its effects on dental health.