ABSTRACT
Objective: The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of tooth wear and to identify
risk factors in a sample of young Nigerian adults. Materials and Methods: Participants were individuals aged 18–35 years, attending dental clinics located
in eight centers representing the six geopolitical zones of the country. Calibrated
examiners measured tooth wear using basic erosive wear examination (BEWE) index. Individuals
were characterized by the highest BEWE score recorded for any facial/oral tooth surface.
Previously validated questionnaire was used to gather information on demographics
and risk factors. Results: A total of 1349 participants were examined. The prevalence of tooth wear was 60.2%.
Bivariate analysis showed significant differences in the prevalence of tooth wear
with age, educational level, and occupation (P ≤ 0.05). There were significant differences in tooth wear among the participants
from the different states. Tooth wear was found to increase with smoking. Tooth wear
was associated with brushing frequency, use of chewing stick, and other local cleaning
agents. Multiple regression analysis showed that age, brushing frequency, brushing
after breakfast added statistically significantly to the prediction of tooth wear
(P < 0.05). Conclusion: Tooth wear was common in the population. The frequency of tooth brushing, use of
chewing sticks and other local tooth cleaning agents may be contributory.
Key words:
Facial/oral tooth surface wear - prevalence - risk factors
