The prevalence and risk factors related to erosive tooth wear in an adult population: a cross-sectional study in Saudi Arabia.

Abstract

This study assessed the prevalence and risk factors associated with erosive tooth wear (ETW) among the adult population. Clinical examinations were conducted using the Basic Erosive Wear Examination index, which assesses the severity of ETW in six sextants of the oral cavity. The risk factors for ETW included: (1) socio-demographic characteristics, (2) general health conditions, (3) vitamin C consumption, (4) beverage consumption, (5) acidic foods and drinks, (6) dairy products, (7) use of fluoridated mouthwashes and toothpastes, and (8) type of toothbrush. A one-way ANOVA test and an independent sample t-test were used; a p-value of 0.05 was considered the threshold for statistical significance. A total of 312 participants were included; 174 (55.8%) were females. In terms of age distribution, the majority of participants were between 23 and 59 years old (n = 261). Regarding education, predominantly (154, 49.4%) held a bachelor's degree. Regarding socioeconomic factors, 214 participants (68.6%) were framed into the lowest socioeconomic status (SES). The highest prevalence of ETW was observed in the maxillary anterior teeth (90.2%), followed by the mandibular anterior teeth (79.8%). Participants who used hard-bristled toothbrushes (teeth abrasion), consumed acidic products, and belonged to high SES groups had significantly higher erosive tooth wear scores. The overall prevalence of ETW among participants was 69%, with the highest prevalence observed in males, older age groups, and those with higher SES. The findings highlight the significant role of dietary habits, oral hygiene practices, and socioeconomic factors in the development of ETW.