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Caries Process, Prevention, and Management: Erosion

Course Number: 716

Conclusion

Erosive tooth wear is becoming increasingly prevalent, and its damaging effect is emerging as a serious public health issue. There is no doubt that mineralized tooth substance loss by erosion can become pathological, leading to complications such as pain, dentin hypersensitivity, and pulpal inflammation, if measures are not taken to prevent the loss of the mineralized tissue. Knowing the factors that promote ETW as well as preventive strategies can go a long way in averting erosion or significantly slowing its progression. The use of a remineralizing mouthrinse or lozenge specific for ETW would be particularly useful to facilitate rapid rehardening of the softened tooth tissue prior to toothbrushing as well as for effective prevention of ETW. There is a need to develop a health education program targeted towards the reduction of the prevalence of ETW through interprofessional management involving all healthcare personnel. The qualities of acidic dietary products should be modified thereby reducing their erosive potential. Becoming familiar with how to assess the level of damage and treat it to prevent the onset of related complications.