Erosive tooth wear - a review on global prevalence and on its prevalence in risk groups

Erosion is a common phenomenon in the general population of developed countries. However, due to variations in indices, sample sizes and general study designs, it is difficult to compare the various studies and to estimate actual global prevalence. Therefore, the aim of this present paper is to give a narrative overview on the data available on the global prevalence of erosion. Information on prevalence is not available from each country; in particular, data from Asia, Africa, South America, North America and large parts of South-Eastern Europe are unavailable. There is a large variation in global prevalence ranging between 0 and 100%. Calculating a rough mean from the data available, a mean prevalence in deciduous teeth between 30% and 50% and in permanent teeth between 20% and 45% can be estimated. There seems to be a gender difference and an increase in prevalence with age. Prevalence studies on erosion risk groups show comparable variation. Only in patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and eating disorders associated with vomiting can a clear impact on erosion prevalence be found. In people who consume acidic foods and drinks, a higher risk can be found for some specific comestibles. However, there is a lack of controlled epidemiological studies, making it difficult to generalise. There is a clear need for well-designed studies on this issue.