Dental erosion: possible approaches to prevention and control.

OBJECTIVES: To discuss the key elements for establishment of a preventive programme for dental erosion. DATA AND SOURCES: The data discussed are primarily based on published scientific studies and reviews from case reports, clinical trials, epidemiological, cohort, animal, in vitro and in vivo studies. References have been traced manually or by MEDLINE. STUDY SELECTION: The aetiology, pathogenesis and modifying factors of dental erosion were reviewed. Strategies to either prevent the occurrence or limit the damage of dental erosion or protect the remaining tooth tissues from further erosive destruction were reviewed and discussed. These includes: (A) measures to (1) enhance remineralisation and acid resistance of enamel surface softened by erosive challenge, (2) reduce the erosive potential of acidic products, (3) enhance salivary flow, (4) protect and restore erosively damaged tooth, and (5) provide mechanical protection against erosive challenge. (B) Health education geared towards (1) diminution of frequency of intake of dietary acids, and (2) change of habits and lifestyles that predispose teeth to erosion development.
CONCLUSIONS: It may be easier to gain patients' compliance with the advice that immediately following an acidic challenge, a remineralising agent, such as fluoride mouthrinses, fluoride tablets, fluoride lozenges or dairy milk, should be administered to enhance rapid remineralisation of the softened tooth surface as well as serve as a mouth refresher, or an alternative, a neutralising solution should be used. Effective counselling on erosion preventive regimes should involve all healthcare personnel, dentists, doctors, pharmacist, nurses/hygienists and clinical psychologists.