# Tooth Wear Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors Among a Small Portuguese Community: A Retrospective Study

## TL;DR

This study found that over half of patients in a Portuguese dental clinic had tooth wear, with age and certain habits being key risk factors.

## Contribution

The study provides new prevalence data and identifies specific risk factors for tooth wear in a Portuguese community.

## Key findings

- Tooth wear prevalence was 54.7%, with attrition being the most common type.
- Age, antacid use, and mouthwash use were positively linked to tooth wear.
- Females had a 30% lower risk of tooth wear compared to males.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Early tooth wear (TW) assessment prevents challenging and costly dental treatments. Knowledge of data on the prevalence and risk factors is crucial for developing preventive guidelines. This retrospective cross-sectional study aims to study the prevalence of TW in a sample of patients seeking a Screening and Emergency appointment at Egas Moniz Dental Clinic (EMDC) and its associated risk factors. Methods: Descriptive and logistic regression analysis were applied to data from a sample of 2266 patients, collected between 2021 and 2023, to ascertain the presence of tooth wear, its different types and its correlation with potential risk factors. Results: The prevalence of dental wear was found to be 54.7%, with attrition (24.1%) being the most prevalent lesion and erosion (2.7%) the least prevalent. Concerning the risk predictors for tooth wear, age (OR = 1.01–1.05, p < 0.05), decreased DVO (OR = 2.16, p = 0.028), antacids (OR = 7.07, p = 0.003), mastication difficulties (OR = 1.87, p = 0.039), drugs (OR = 2.38, p = 0.032) and use of mouthwash (OR = 1.47, p = 0.008) were positively associated. Gender (OR = 0.7, p = 0.015) was negatively associated, with females showing a 30% less risk than males. Conclusions: It was concluded that TW is prevalent and increases with age, underscoring the necessity for timely and accurate diagnosis to minimize its progression. Additionally, it is crucial to conduct a thorough evaluation of the risk factors involved to implement effective preventive measures and treatment strategies.