Tooth Wear in the Child and Adolescent

Abstract

Tooth wear can be a problem in children and adolescents. In primary teeth, it is usually physiological. These teeth will exfoliate; therefore, treatment is rarely required. When tooth wear is seen in the permanent teeth of younger patients, it is usually pathological and most often caused by dental erosion. Causes include gastro-oesophageal reflux disorders, bulimia or acidic diets. Restorative interventions may be more difficult to deliver in a young and potentially anxious child; therefore, prevention of tooth wear is critical. Where interventions are necessary, consideration must be given to ongoing changes to crown height and occlusion in a growing child or adolescent. Non-destructive adhesive dentistry should be used whenever possible. Composite restorations are usually recommended for anterior teeth and adhesive onlays are the treatment of choice in the posterior dentition.