The Dahl principle: Benefits, limitations and optimizations

Managing pathological tooth wear in dentate subjects is a challenge, all the more so when it is accompanied by dentoalveolar compensation. The Dahl concept was proposed by Bjorn L. Dahl et al. Dahl et al. The rather additive approach requires the creation of an immediate 2 mm to 3 mm increase in DVO at the inter-incisal level, combined with an inocclusion of the posterior teeth. The removable appliance is worn continuously (except during meals) for around 6 months, until contact between the posterior teeth is re-established. At this point, the new anterior inter-occlusal space is restored. The advent of new composite and ceramic materials, bonding polymers with excellent adhesive properties and the introduction of orthodontics revolutionized Dahl's concept. New approaches were introduced. After a review of the various tooth wear lesions and their consequences in the first chapter, Dahl's concept in its classical approach is discussed. The third chapter is devoted to optimizing the concept with the advent of new materials and the introduction of orthodontics.