The Dahl Concept as a Conservative Approach for Anterior Tooth Wear: A Case Report

BACKGROUND Moderate to severe localized tooth wear presents a significant clinical challenge, compromising masticatory function and aesthetics. To prioritize tooth preservation, conservative strategies are increasingly preferred over extensive full-mouth rehabilitation. The Dahl concept is a documented biomechanical strategy that creates localized interocclusal space through supra-occlusion, facilitating a minimally invasive restorative approach. CASE REPORT This report details the clinical application of the Dahl technique for the management of moderate localized anterior tooth wear. An intentional 2 mm increase in occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) was established using fixed interim crowns on maxillary anterior teeth (13-23) in supra-occlusion, immediately resulting in the temporary posterior disclusion of the posterior teeth. This controlled interference initiates the physiological process of dentoalveolar compensation of the posterior teeth. Full posterior occlusal contacts were successfully re-established within 4 months. The resulting anterior restorative space permitted the placement of definitive monolithic lithium disilicate glass-ceramic (e.max) single crowns. At the 2-year follow-up, the restorations exhibited excellent marginal integrity, and the patient maintained stable posterior occlusion. Written informed consent was obtained from the patient for this publication. CONCLUSIONS The Dahl concept, utilizing a 2 mm supra-occlusal protocol, provides a conservative, reversible, cost-effective, and predictable alternative for managing localized anterior wear. This approach effectively restores function and aestheticswhile minimizing the biological cost associated with extensive tooth reduction. This case report confirms that posterior occlusal re-establishment can be achieved within 4 months, with stable clinical outcomes maintained over a 2-year period.