Factors influencing the progression of noncarious cervical lesions: A 5-year prospective clinical evaluation

Abstract

Statement of problemThe etiology (chemical, friction, abfraction) of noncarious cervical lesion (NCCL) progression is poorly understood. PurposeThe purpose of this 5-year prospective clinical trial was to measure the relationship between NCCLs and various etiologic factors. Material and methodsAfter review board approval, 29 participants with NCCLs were enrolled. Polyvinyl siloxane impressions were made of each NCCL, and casts were poured at baseline, 1, 2, and 5 years. The casts were scanned with a noncontact profilometer, and 1-, 2-, and 5-year scans were superimposed over baseline scans to measure volumetric change in NCCLs. T-scan and Fujifilm Prescale films were used to record relative and absolute occlusal forces on teeth with NCCLs at the 5-year recall. Participant diet, medical condition, toothbrushing, and adverse oral habit questionnaires were given at the 5-year recall. Occlusal analysis was completed on mounted casts to determine the presence of wear facets and group function. Volumetric lesion progression from 1 to 5 years was correlated to absolute and relative occlusal force using mixed model analysis. The Kruskall-Wallis and Mann-Whitney analyses compared lesion progression with diet, medical condition, toothbrushing, adverse oral habits, wear facets, and group function. ResultsThe NCCL progression rate over 5 years was 1.50 ±0.92 mm3/yr. The rate of progression of NCCLs was related to mean occlusal stress (P=.011) and relative occlusal force (P=.032) in maximum intercuspation position. No difference was seen in NCCL progression between participants with any other factors. ConclusionHeavy occlusal forces play a significant role in the progression of NCCLs.