Signs and diagnosis
Everyone with natural teeth is likely to develop some signs of tooth wear, but
many patients are unlikely to be aware that it is happening to them until it
has reached an advanced stage.
Currently, dental erosion normally only reaches a diagnostic threshold when
restorative dentistry is indicated. Improving recognition of the early signs
and symptoms is crucial if effective preventative measures are to be taken.
The pathophysiology of acid erosion
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1. Sensitivity
| As dentine becomes exposed, an occasional slight twinge may be felt
when consuming hot, cold or sweet foods and drinks |
Early signs |
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2. Discolouration
| Teeth can have a slight yellow appearance as the dentine shows through |
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3. Rounded Teeth
| A rounded 'sandblasted' look on the surface and edges of the teeth
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4. Transparency
| Front teeth may appear slightly transparent near their biting edges |
Late stages |
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5. Advanced Discolouration
| Teeth may show a darker yellow appearance which is the exposed dentine showing
through |
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6. Cracks
| Small cracks and roughness may be present at the edges of the teeth |
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7. Severe Sensitivity
| As dentine continues to becomes exposed over time, teeth can suffer from severe
dentine hypersensitivity
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8. Cupping
| Small dents may appear on the chewing surface of the teeth — at this stage any
fillings may appear to rise up
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At any stage of dental erosion, dentine hypersensitivity may occur. This could
range from infrequent twinges during consumption of hot, cold or sweet foods,
through to fairly continuous sensitivity readily provoked by the mildest of
stimuli. Occasional sensitivity may well go unreported by the patient during
routine examinations.