The fretboard on a guitar can be restored
Guitars are complex instruments that require care and maintenance. Damage to the fretboard can be averted by proper care. If it is damaged, it often can be restored by a professional using specific restoration techniques.
The Guitar
A guitar is a stringed musical instrument with a neck and a body. It can be either acoustic or electric, with six or 12 strings.
The Fretboard
The fretboard is the front of the neck of a guitar. The fretboard is flat with a slight convex shape, and has at least 14 thin metal rods, called frets, that run horizontally across the front.
Fretboard Damage
The fretboard may be damaged because of dulled frets, uneven frets or a twisted neck. Damage may occur due to use, time or physical jarring.
Fretboard Restoration
Uneven or worn frets can usually be filed, though in some cases, the frets will need to be replaced. If the neck is twisted or bent out of place, the truss rod can be adjusted. A guitar store can assist with restoration of a fretboard.
Fretboard Maintenance
The frets can be sanded to remove dust and grime. The fretboard should be oiled to keep it from drying out or warping.