On dental erosive wear among different groups in Norway : scoring systems, prevalence and risk indicators

Abstract

The substantial reductions in prevalence and severity of the most common dental diseases, dental caries and periodontal diseases, have caused a change in the perception of and focus on dental erosive wear. Diagnosis of the condition and early identification of individuals at risk are essential to establish preventive strategies.<br><br>

The overall aim was to gain knowledge about the prevalence and distribution of dental erosive wear in different population groups in Norway, particularly in those who may be at risk. A second objective was to identify related risk indicators; this may increase the possibility of targeting these individuals for preventive measures. <br><br>

The thesis is based on cross-sectional studies, data collected during clinical examinations, by use of questionnaires and by measuring saliva. The study participants were 18-year-old adolescents enrolled in the Public Dental Health Services in Oslo (Paper I-III), physically active young adults aged 18-30 years at a fitness-centre in Oslo (Paper IV) and professional wine tasters employed at the Vinmonopolet AS, Norway (Paper V).<br><br>

The studies showed that the prevalence of dental erosive wear was high, 38% of the 18-year-olds and 64% of the individuals who exercised regularly had dental erosive wear. Even though no association was found between the duration of being a wine taster and occurrence of lesions, half of the wine tasters were registered as having dental erosive lesions, compared with 20% in an age- and sex matched comparison group. Among 18-year-olds, being male, occupational status, frequent consumption of fruit juice and sugary soft drinks, as well as reported occurrence of reflux and vomiting, were all associated with erosive wear. The results suggest that decreased stimulated salivary flow rate during exercise was associated with erosive lesions. <br><br>

Dental erosive wear is a common, multifactorial condition. Certain life-style factors may increase the risk of erosive wear and the identification of these may increase the possibility of targeting individuals with the highest risk so that preventive strategies may be established.