About the project
Dental erosion involves the loss of tooth substance due to acids that are not produced by oral bacteria. Acids from food and drink are the main sources, but stomach acids associated with gastric reflux or eating disturbances or environmental acids can be involved.
The prevalence of dental erosion appears to be increasing and seems to be associated with a modern lifestyle. Epidemiological studies from other countries show varying results and in Norway there is very little data available. In order to obtain an overview of the extent of this problem in Norway, a clinical study has been carried out on 18-yr-olds in Oslo. Smaller prevalence studies have been carried out in the form of Mastergrad projects - on both university students and people training at health centres.
The most important treatment for dental erosion is information to the patient and a thorough examination in order to determine the cause(s) of the damage. In cases where the cause is unknown or difficult to determine, and where the damage continues, extensive dental treatment is often required in order to restore the dentition. Prior to that stage it is important to diagnose signs of early erosion lesions and aim to prevent further damage. With regard to prevention, studies have shown that treatment of the enamel and/or dentine with acidic fluorides can provide a certain degree of protection against further acid damage.
A study aiming to gather information about dentists knowledge about dental erosion and their treatment methods is in the planning stage
Researchers from different clinical departments are working on various projects related to dental erosions.
- Masterproject - vegan/vegetarian.
- In vitro, in situ and in experimental in vivo studies to test the ability of various fluorides to protect dental hard tissue against acid attack as observed in some patients suffering from eating disorders (bullemia nervosa and anorexia nervosa) or as a result of dietary habits. The role of saliva and pellicle is also of interest. Analytical techniques include calcium analysis, microscopy techniques (SEM, TEM) and optical profilometry and white light interferometry (WLI).
Cooperation
- SINTEF, Materials and Chemistry, Oslo, Norway (Børge Holme)