Management of Tooth Surface Loss

This course is devoted to tooth surface loss (TSL) not caused by caries or trauma. The management of this form of generalised TSL is included here because knowledge of occlusion is needed for both the diagnosis and, when indicated, treatment. There are, however, many other factors involved in the management of gneralised TSL other than those associated with ‘occlusion.’ These are also discussed.

Tooth surface loss may be purely physiological and occurs as a natural consequence of aging. Several factors, however, including erosion, abrasion and attrition can render tooth surface loss pathological. As a result of this, symptoms may develop and treatment may be indicated. Although this article will deal with only pathological tooth surface loss, it is important to be able to recognize when tooth surface loss is purely physiological; it cannot be assumed that all tooth surface loss is pathological.