Basic Information on Non-Carious Cervical Lesions (NCCLs)

What is it? 

NCCLs are wear defects on teeth right next to the gums. The loss of tooth structure usually resembles something like the mark that an axe leaves on a tree when chopping it or a wide and hollowed out concave surface. The lesions can be attributed to a combination of internal stresses on the tooth (from high biting forces, usually associated with grinding or clenching during sleep) and/or external wear forces (from aggressive tooth brushing or regular dietary acidic exposures).

​

In most cases, NCCLs are asymptomatic or they may become symptomatic occasionally. If left untreated, the lesions will gradually over time (usually years) become more widespread or extend deeper into the teeth. In severe cases, the pulp of the tooth may develop infection or the tooth may fracture.

 
What treatment do we recommend? 

For the minor or superficial lesions, we recommend managing the symptoms and monitoring only. This usually involves using toothpaste for sensitive teeth to manage sensitivity problems.

​

For something more than a minor lesion, a bonded filling is recommended for protection of the tooth structure. Delays may result in the need for more complex treatments.

Additional notes 

Regular dental check-up visits enable NCCLs to be monitored. As NCCLs are usually asymptomatic, they may develop into severe lesions with little warning and the tooth may require more complex treatment like root canal treatment or possibly an extraction.