Related Experiment Videos
Attrition, eruption, and the periodontium.
1Department of Periodontology, Eastman Dental Institute for Oral Health Care Sciences, University College London, University of London, United Kingdom.
Journal of Dental Research
|March 30, 1999
Summary
Natural tooth eruption and chewing function are key to understanding widespread dental issues. Adult tooth eruption and masticatory function prevent plaque buildup, influencing periodontal health and caries development.
Area of Science:
- Dental Science
- Periodontology
- Cariology
Background:
- Chronic inflammatory periodontal diseases (CIPDs) and dental caries are prevalent globally.
- Understanding the natural history of teeth and masticatory function is crucial for explaining disease prevalence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on continuing tooth eruption in adulthood.
- To examine the role of natural masticatory function in preventing plaque accumulation.
- To consider the implications for understanding CIPDs and dental caries.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on adult tooth eruption.
- Analysis of research on masticatory function and plaque accumulation.
- Examination of studies on epithelial attachment to cementum.
- Consideration of age-related factors in periodontal attachment.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports continuous tooth eruption throughout adulthood.
- Natural masticatory function effectively prevents plaque accumulation at approximal sites.
- Epithelial attachment to cementum may represent a physiological state.
- Periodontal attachment dynamics are significantly influenced by age.
Conclusions:
- Continuing tooth eruption and natural mastication are vital protective factors against periodontal disease and caries.
- These physiological processes must be considered in the etiology of widespread dental diseases.
- Future periodontal research should incorporate age-related parameters and the impact of masticatory function.