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Rationalization of quantitative tooth surface loss data for epidemiological research
R G Chadwick1, H L Mitchell, S Ward
1Unit of Restorative Dentistry, The Dental School, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK. r.g.chadwick@dundee.ac.uk
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
|May 6, 2004
Summary
A new scoring method effectively categorizes tooth surface loss (TSL) due to erosion in children and adolescents. This reproducible approach aids epidemiological studies by correlating visual TSL scores with quantitative data.
Area of Science:
- Dental Research
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Tooth surface loss (TSL) due to erosion is prevalent in children and adolescents.
- Current quantitative methods for TSL progression (e.g., digital surface mapping) may be insufficient for epidemiological analysis.
- Distinguishing between localized and widespread erosion is crucial, even if total volume loss is similar.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a categorical scoring system for tooth surface loss (TSL) due to erosion.
- To assess the reproducibility and correlation of this categorical score with quantitative wear data.
- To improve the utility of TSL assessment in epidemiological studies.
Main Methods:
- Two examiners independently categorized TSL in 53 maxillary incisors using a 5-point categorical scale (1-5).
- Examiner performance was assessed for intra- and inter-examiner agreement using percentage agreement and Wilcoxon signed-rank test.
- Regression analysis was performed between consensus categorical scores and quantitative wear data.
Main Results:
- High intra-examiner agreement (100%) and good inter-examiner agreement (88.7%) were achieved.
- The categorical TSL scores showed a strong linear correlation with quantitative wear data (R = 0.82).
- The developed method demonstrated reproducibility and reflected quantitative TSL data.
Conclusions:
- The proposed categorical scoring method for TSL due to erosion is reproducible and aligns with quantitative measurements.
- This method can enhance the analysis of TSL in epidemiological studies involving children and adolescents.
- Continued vigilance is advised to manage examiner disagreement in TSL assessments.
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