A Questionnaire Based Study to Investigate the Variations in the Management of Tooth Wear by UK and Prosthodontists from Other Countries

Abstract - The aim of this research project was to compare how the management of toothwear differs between specialist prosthodontists in the United Kingdom and other countries’ specialist prosthodontists. A questionnaire on the managment of toothwear was sent to two groups of 100 specialist prosthodontists randomly selected in the United Kingdom and overseas. The response rate was 64% for UK and 54% for overseas respondents. Similarities existed in the management of bruxism and the prevention of erosion, but there were significant differences between the two groups regarding treatment of palatal erosion, short clinical crowns and wear on the lower incisors. UK prosthodontists more often use resin-based materials and a showed a more conservative approach to treatment of tooth wear compared to their overseas colleagues.

KEY WORDS: Toothwear, specialist prosthodontist brauxism, erosion, tooth surface loss