Minimally Invasive Rehabilitation of a Worn Dentition in a Young Patient: A Case Report

Abstract

Erosive tooth wear (ETW) is increasingly prevalent, particularly among younger populations, and is often associated with dietary habits, including frequent soft‐drink consumption. Patients with advanced tooth wear may report hypersensitivity, impaired mastication, and dissatisfaction with their smile, all of which can negatively affect daily function and quality of life. This case report describes the full‐mouth rehabilitation of a young patient with severe ETW using a minimally invasive approach. Treatment combined digital planning, diagnostic digital wax‐ups, and 3D‐printed preparation guides to support precision and tissue preservation. Lithium disilicate was selected because of its favorable mechanical and optical properties. Its reduced thickness allowed conservative tooth preparation, and the restorations were adhesively cemented according to a carefully planned protocol. Re‐establishing an appropriate vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) addressed the patient′s functional and esthetic concerns while preserving healthy tooth structure. At the 1‐year follow‐up, the restorations remained stable, supporting the effectiveness of a minimally invasive protocol based on contemporary adhesive techniques and durable ceramic materials.