Urgent attention needed on tooth erosion

The Federation further concluded that effective management includes screening for early signs of tooth erosion and evaluating all aetiological factors, including eating and drinking habits, nutritional supplements, reflux, vomiting and medications.

Speaking about this consensus, Professor Andrew Eder, a specialist in restorative dentistry and prosthodontics, and Clinical Director of the London Tooth Wear Centre, commented: “With people living longer, we need to work with our patients now to ensure their oral health does not let them down and one area that urgently needs our attention is that of erosive tooth wear.

“The Adult Dental Health Survey teaches us that more than three quarters of dentate adults show some tooth wear in their anterior teeth, while the increase in moderate tooth wear in 16 to 34 year olds is of clinical relevance as it is suggestive of rapid tooth wear.

“In my view, tooth wear is going to increase in our patients in the years to come. Poor drink choices, eating disorders like bulimia and an increased need for medication as a result of people living for longer, as well as other factors, are all going to contribute to tooth wear.