The association between erosive tooth wear and diet, hygiene habits and health awareness in adolescents aged 15 in Poland

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of erosive tooth wear (ETW) and risk indicators in the population of adolescents aged 15 in Poland. METHODS: Erosive tooth wear in 2639 participants was determined by calibrated examiners according to the BEWE scoring system, and the prevalence of risk factors was assessed on the basis of a survey. RESULTS: Erosive tooth wear was reported in 24.3% of participants. Initial loss of surface (BEWE 1) was the predominant finding, observed in 21.3% of participants. Hard tissue loss (BEWE 2 and 3) occurred very rarely, only in 3% of participants. Acidic diet, masculine gender and lower socio-economic status were associated with higher prevalence and severity of erosive lesions in the examined population. CONCLUSION: Two modifiable factors—acidic diet and low health awareness—were found to be highly unsatisfactory in the adolescents aged 15 in Poland. Accordingly, to prevent the deterioration of the functionality and aesthetics of the teeth in young people, certain measures, such as routine clinical examination, education, dietary consulting and prophylaxis, should be implemented as early as possible, focusing predominantly on families with lower socio-economic status.