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Investigation of Tooth Wear and its Associated Etiologies in Adult Patients Visiting Dental Institute in India

Saee Deshpande*

Aim: To evaluate the prevalence, severity and patient?s awareness of tooth wear in adults visiting VSPMDCRC Nagpur.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was designed. The sample size was determined by using single proportion formula. A validated questionnaire was used to evaluate prevalence, grade of severity of tooth wear. Other factors such as presence of dentinal sensitivity and habits were also included. A total of 570 patients were examined, both male and females of age group 25-55 years with periodontally sound dentition were included in the study.

Results: Chi-square test for linear trend was applied for statistical analysis. Total 570 patients were investigated out of which 245 (43%) patients showed signs of tooth wear. Prevalence of tooth wear was 45% for males and 41% for females. Prevalence of tooth wear and its severity increased with advancing age. 38% of patients with tooth wear complained of dentinal hypersensitivity. Majority of patients 55% who had tooth wear reported habit of chewing of tobacco related products. Patients with tooth wear of grade 1 and 2 showed lack of awareness of their condition however those with grade 3 showed increased awareness (35%) and it doubled as the grade progressed to 4.

Conclusion: Tooth wear is a prevalent condition in this population. The severity increased as the age progressed. Tobacco chewing is also prevalent in patients showing tooth wear. There was lack of awareness in patients showing initial tooth wear however as the wear progressed 74% of patients sought the treatment. Clinical Significance: The implication for dentists is that efforts should be made to increase the awareness about tooth wear. Also, early diagnosis and prevention are vital to the well being of the patients.