Open AccessPrevalence of Erosive Tooth Wear and Associated Dietary Factors among a Group of Finnish Adolescents
Author(s) -
Mirja Methuen,
Hanna Kangasmaa,
Viivi Alaraudanjoki,
Anna Liisa Suominen,
Vuokko Anttonen,
Hannu Vähänikkilä,
Panu Karjalainen,
Juuso Väistö,
Timo A. Lakka,
MarjaLiisa Laitala
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
caries research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.355
H-Index - 100
eISSN - 1421-976X
pISSN - 0008-6568
DOI - 10.1159/000527305
Subject(s) - tooth wear , medicine , australian population , logistic regression , dentistry , population , environmental health
The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and severity of erosive tooth wear (ETW) among Finnish adolescents and to evaluate how frequency as well as amount of the use of erosive products is associated with ETW. The study population consisted of 328 voluntary, >15-year-old secondary school students (males 49.1%, females 50.9%) in three municipalities in Finland. Clinical examination to measure ETW (BEWE index) was carried out by trained and calibrated dentists. Piloted questionnaires included questions on consumption of drinks, fruits and berries, as well as tooth brushing frequency. Means and medians of frequencies and amounts of consumed erosive products were calculated and associations with ETW severity were analysed by logistic regression models. One-third (36.9%) of the participants were in need of at least preventive measures for ETW (BEWE sum score ≥3), but severe ETW (BEWE sum score >9) was rare (2.1%). Boys had severe ETW significantly more frequently than girls (p < 0.001). Habitual consumption of erosive drinks was common especially among boys compared to girls (p = 0.001). ETW was significantly associated with the amount of consumed erosive drinks, fruits, or berries. The prevalence of ETW among adolescences in Finland seems to be at the same level as in other Nordic and European countries. Consumption of erosive products is common and thus, the risk for tooth erosion is high, especially in boys. In addition to erosive drinks, also berries and fruits are associated with ETW and should be included in individual dietary counselling when early signs of ETW are clinically detected.