Evaluation of tooth wear and associated risk factors: A matched case-Control study

The aim of this case-control study was to compare the associated risk factors between adults with tooth wear (TW) and age- and sex-matched controls without TW.

Fifty participants with TW and 50 age- and sex-matched controls participated in this study. A questionnaire was prepared to assess oral healthcare and consumption of erosive food and drinks. All participants completed the diet analysis forms. Saliva characteristics were evaluated with GC Saliva-Check BUFFER test. Examiners measured the TW of case patients, using the TW index. Data were statistically analyzed using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U-tests (P < 0.05).

Individuals in the case group brush their teeth more often (P < 0.05). The difference in erosive food consumption between the case and control groups was significant (P < 0.05). There was no erosive effect of acidic food when consumed as a main meal or a snack (P > 0.05). Although there was no difference between stimulated saliva flow rate and buffering capacity between groups, the difference between the resting saliva flow rates and pH values was significant (P < 0.05). Although some wear was seen on buccal/labial surfaces of teeth, cervical and occlusal/incisal surfaces were scored higher. No TW was observed on palatal/lingual surfaces. The cervical surfaces of mandibular premolars and incisal surfaces of anterior teeth were most affected.

Of the factors investigated, TW in the case group was correlated with consumption of acidic foods, lower salivary flow rate, and pH.