Tooth wear in children: prevalence, presentation and prevention

Abstract

Tooth wear in children is a multifactorial process that can be due to either physiological or pathological processes. The most frequent type of tooth wear in children is erosion, and its contribution to overall tooth wear is explained. The prevalence, aetiology, presentation and management of tooth wear, especially erosion, are discussed in this article, with practical clinical advice for the treating clinician and families. The challenges to giving practical preventive advice, and the complexities involved in overcoming dietary and lifestyle changes in an environment of powerful advertising, peer pressure and social media influencers are discussed in detail. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Erosive tooth wear is common in children, so understanding the aetiology and giving families practical and relevant preventive advice is important.