A New Look at Erosive Tooth Wear in Elderly People

A New Look at Erosive Tooth Wear in Elderly People
2007
David Bartlett, BDS, PhD, FDS RCS
Journal of the American Dental Association

ABSTRACT

Background. The author describes the clinical appearance of and the outcomes associated with erosive tooth wear, particularly that in older people.

Types of Studies Reviewed. The author conducted a traditional clinical review that was based on a synopsis of the current literature on dental erosion. He found that intrinsic and extrinsic acids are known to be associated with acid erosion and tooth wear. He also explored the etiology and pathogenesis of tooth wear and compared the longevity of restorations to the option of monitoring and preventing tooth wear. He found that preventive measures, which included limiting the frequency of acid exposure and using fluoride toothpastes and dentin-bonding agents, could prolong tooth life.

Results. Tooth wear and acid erosion are common clinical findings in patients of all ages. The results of tooth wear can cause significant damage to teeth, which can require complex and costly prosthodontic treatment.

Clinical Implications. Diagnosing the cause of a patientĚs tooth wear can help prevent further damage.

Key Words: Acid erosion; diet; tooth wear

Abbreviations: GERD: Gastroesophageal reflux disease

The importance of acids in the etiology of tooth wear has been recognized in Europe and increasingly in North America. Tooth wear is part of the normal aging process, but, in most people, the rate of tooth wear does not compromise the longevity of the teeth. Approximately 7 percent of subjects in a 1996 study had exposure of secondary dentin and the pulp that justified operative intervention.1

Š 2007 American Dental Association

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