Erosion

Question 1

What is erosion

Answer 1

Progressive loss of dental tissues by acidic chemical process of non bacterial origin

Question 2

What are the etiological factors leading to erosion

Answer 2

1. Extrinsic acid
2. Salivary glands
3. Intrinsic acid

Question 3

What salivary factors do we investigate if we suspect erosion

Answer 3

Amount an differing capacity of saliva

Question 4

What can the amount of saliva be affected by

Answer 4

1.. Medications
2. Medical conditions
3, Age

Question 5

List some medical condition that can change a patients amount of saliva

Answer 5

1. Diabetes
2. Sjögrens
3. Radiotherapy

Question 6

Name the 2 classifications we can give to saliva

Answer 6

Serous and mucous

Question 7

Which classification of saliva has a higher buffering capacity

Answer 7

Serous saliva

Question 8

How does the saliva influence the oral cavity

Answer 8

Affects the pH of the mouth

Question 9

List some common acidic food and drinks we may consume that can contribute to erosion

Answer 9

1. Soft drinks
2. Alcoholic drinks
3. Fruit
4. Pickles
5. Yogurts
6. Sauces

Question 10

List some medical conditions that can increase a patients risk of having erosion

Answer 10

1. Eating disorders
2. Alcoholism
3. Obesity
4. Pregnancy
5. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disorder (GORD)
6. Gastric reflex

Question 11

What are the common symptoms of Gastro-oesophageal reflux disorder (GORD)

Answer 11

1. Heartburn
2. Regurgitation
3. Non cardiac chest pain
4. Silent reflux

Question 12

Describe the clinical presentation of erosion

Answer 12

1. Dentine tends to wear away quicker than enamel
2. Leads to unsupported enamel on anterior teeth
3. Cupping defects
4. Loss of contour
5. Etched appearance to the teeth
6. Palatal hollows
7. Thinning of incisal edge
8. Chipping of enamel
9. ‘Proud’ restorations