Tooth Wear Research Paper

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1. INTRODUCTION: Tooth wear is a general term describing the loss of dental hard tissues from the surfaces of the teeth caused by factors other than dental caries, trauma and developmental disorders 1,2. Attrition, erosion, and abrasion usually cause alterations of the tooth surface and manifest as tooth wear. These processes act by distinct progressions and exhibit unique clinical characteristics (Figure 1) Prevalence of tooth surface loss is increasing and younger patients are said to be at higher risks. The particular concern is the alarming rate of tooth wear that is now been seen in children and young adults. This was first noted in the Dental health survey of children in 1993, when children under the age of 5, especially those consuming …show more content…

ETIOLOGY OF TOOTH WEAR: The distinct definitions for each class of tooth wear reinforces the traditional point of view that these processes occur independently and may occur in concomitance of other processes as well. Hence, it may be that combining the etiologies probably reflect the true clinical scenarios 16. Identification of the etiology is essential for the successful management of the pathology. Saliva can lessen the tooth wear processes via pellicle formation and re-mineralization however; cannot prevent it. a) ABRASION: Both patient and material related factors influences the prevalence of this condition. The brushing technique, brushing frequency and the force applied while brushing are common patient related factors. The type of bristle material of tooth-brush, stiffness of tooth-brush bristles, the abrasiveness and pH of dentifrice used are factors related to material …show more content…

In patients who have habits of smoking and alcohol consumption, counselling should be done and their dietary habits should also be documented. A thorough dietary enquiry is often needed if it is alleged that an abnormal dietary or an eating disorder is present. A three-day consecutive comprehensive diet diary is recommended for the patients who are affected by severe tooth wear and have abnormal dietary habits53. It is often beneficial that such patients reduce the daily intake of fruits, fruit juices, carbonated drinks or any other acidic substrates. It should also be recommended to such patients that they limit the consumption of erosive foods/bever¬ages during their meals. Once acid beverages have been taken, it is advised that hard cheese or dairy prod¬ucts are consumed as this is helpful in promoting the re-hardening of enamel 54. Chewing gum containing carbamide may help in reduction of erosive agents as they cause a rapid rise in salivary pH 55. Habitual changes i.e. drinking of the acidic beverages using a straw and prevention of swishing beverages in the mouth, will reduce the rate of erosive tooth wear. Avoiding overzealous tooth-brushing habits and the use of less abrasive toothpastes will also be

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