Related Experiment Videos
Asthma and tooth erosion. Is there an association?
1Melton Rutland and Harborough NHS Trust, Leicester. Christopher.Dugmore@mrh-pct.nhs.uk
International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry
|February 27, 2004
Summary
This study found no link between asthma and tooth erosion in adolescents. Most asthma medications are not erosive to teeth, suggesting safety for dental health.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Respiratory Medicine
- Dental Public Health
Background:
- Asthma is a common chronic respiratory condition in children.
- Tooth erosion is a significant dental issue with multifactorial causes.
- Concerns exist regarding the potential dental erosion effects of asthma medications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if a correlation exists between asthma and tooth erosion in adolescents.
- To assess the erosive potential of commonly prescribed asthma medications.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study of 1753 12-year-olds, with 1308 re-examined at age 14.
- Tooth erosion assessed using a standardized index.
- Asthma status self-reported; medication data obtained from prescription records.
Main Results:
- Asthma prevalence was 16.8% in 12-year-olds.
- No significant difference in tooth erosion prevalence or incidence between asthmatic and non-asthmatic children.
- 88% of asthma medications had a pH above the critical level of 5.5, indicating low erosive potential.
Conclusions:
- No association was found between asthma and tooth erosion in the studied adolescent population.
- The majority of asthma medications are unlikely to cause dental erosion due to their pH levels.