Risk factors for noncarious cervical lesions: A case-control study

Area of Science:

• Dental research
• Oral health
• Biomaterials science

Background:

• Noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs) are prevalent dental issues with multifactorial origins, including tooth anatomy, erosion, abrasion, and occlusion.
• Understanding the specific risk factors is crucial for developing effective prevention and management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between lifestyle, anatomical factors, and the occurrence of noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs).
• To identify independent risk factors contributing to NCCL development using a case-control study design.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 63 participants with NCCLs and 63 matched controls.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was utilized to assess for wedge-shaped defects at the cementoenamel junction.
• Data on diet, health, and toothbrushing habits were collected via questionnaires, alongside cephalometric measurements (SNB and FMA).

Main Results:

• Multivariate analysis identified the frequency of carbonated beverage consumption (OR=3.147) and Frankfort-mandibular plane angle (FMA) (OR=1.100) as significant risk factors for NCCLs.
• The sella-nasion-point B angle (SNB) (OR=0.896) emerged as a protective factor, with larger angles associated with lower NCCL probability.
• Regression models incorporating these factors demonstrated predictive capability (AUC values around 0.70).

Conclusions:

• Increased frequency of carbonated beverage consumption and higher FMA are confirmed risk factors for NCCLs.
• A larger SNB is associated with a reduced likelihood of developing NCCLs, suggesting a protective role.
• These findings enhance our understanding of NCCL etiology and inform clinical prevention strategies for dental tissue loss.