Associated Risk Factors with Tooth Wear in Patients Attending Private Dental Hospital in Karachi: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Tooth wear is non-carious enamel and dentinal destruction with multi-factorial etiology affecting oral health-related quality of life. Identification of risk factors and their prevention are crucial in the management of such cases. Objective: To determine risk factors associated with tooth wear in patients attending Hamdard University Dental Hospital. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from 1st February to 31st July 2023. Non-probability consecutive sampling was done. Patients with tooth wear were identified according to Smith and Knight Criteria of tooth wear. Patients with tooth wear were interviewed on a modified questionnaire to identify further associated risk factors. Data was entered and analyzed in SPSS version 22. Descriptive statistics were used for categorical variables. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to determine predictive factors associated with tooth wear. Crude and adjusted Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used to measure association. P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Overall, 755 patients were examined and participated in the study accounting for a 98% response rate. 62.6% were males and 37.4% were females with an age range of 18-65 years. Tooth Wear was present in 75.6% of participants with 58.8% erosion, 31.5% attrition, and 6.1% abrasion cases.3.5% of patients demonstrated more than one type of TW. Carbonated drinks showed a higher risk of tooth wear, followed by bruxism, gastric problems, and aggressive tooth brushing. Conclusion: Associated risk factors of tooth wear should be given due consideration to implementing patient education and preventive strategies to preserve dental health.