Dental erosion is the loss of dental hard tissue caused by chemical processes that do not involve bacterial action. In children and adolescents, erosion is commonly associated with dietary acids, acidic beverages, and certain medical conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux or eating disorders.
Early diagnosis and preventive management are essential to minimise progression and protect tooth structure.
Core principles include:
Effective management of dental erosion requires a preventive approach combined with patient and caregiver education.
Dental erosion should be diagnosed through careful clinical examination and assessment of potential risk factors, including dietary habits and medical conditions.
Frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages is a major risk factor for dental erosion and should be addressed through dietary counselling.
Preventive strategies should focus on reducing exposure to dietary acids and promoting protective behaviours that minimise tooth wear.
(Evidence-based recommendations are not subject to global agreement scoring.)
(Evaluated for Global Agreement in 2022)
Children presenting with signs of dental erosion should receive appropriate preventive advice and regular monitoring to detect progression.
Management of dental erosion may require collaboration with other healthcare professionals when underlying medical conditions are suspected.
Preventive strategies should include patient and caregiver education on dietary habits, timing of tooth brushing after acidic exposure, and appropriate fluoride use.
To support clinical implementation and knowledge translation, IAPD has developed complementary educational materials.
Relevant discussions within the IAPD Podcast Series may address dietary factors and preventive strategies related to dental erosion.
Webinars addressing preventive oral health care may include topics related to the diagnosis and management of dental erosion.
International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD).
IAPD Foundational Articles and Recommendations on Behaviour Guidance in Paediatric Dental Patients.
Originally published 2019. Global Agreement Validation 2022.
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