Preventive dentistry 10. Erosive tooth wear
Erosive tooth wear has recently been at the centre of attention and its prevalence of erosive tooth wear among adolescents in the Netherlands appears to be rising. The multifactorial nature of the aetiology of the condition makes it difficult to identify the relevant causal factors, both in individual cases and within the general population. Preventive intervention is indicated in those cases where (active) erosive tooth wear is diagnosed. Early diagnosis is important, especially in younger patients. Preventive measures, such as dietary advice and the use of fluoride, are recommended but the scientific evidence for their effectiveness is still limited. In cases where acid reflux disease is the cause, treatment with medicines can have the effect of reducing the progression of tooth wear. Recognising a non-active condition, for example after successful preventive treatment, is difficult, but will be supported with digital methods in the near future.