Noncarious cervical lesions in adults: prevalence and occlusal aspects

BACKGROUND: The factors that induce the formation of noncarious lesions are not understood fully, particularly those that are related to occlusal aspects. The authors conducted a study to evaluate the prevalence of noncarious cervical lesions in adults and their association with occlusal aspects. METHODS: The authors examined 70 people (35 men and 35 women) aged 25 to 45 years to determine the presence and type of noncarious cervical lesions, wear facets, tooth contacts in maximal intercuspal position, and lateral and protrusive movements. The assessment involved a questionnaire and clinical examination. RESULTS: Among the teeth the authors evaluated, 17.23 percent had cervical lesions, 80.28 percent of which had wear facets (P < .01). The authors found a significant difference between the prevalence of noncarious lesions and the presence of wear facets (P = .0484). CONCLUSIONS: The authors found that cervical lesions were related significantly to wear facets. These findings strengthen evidence for the role of occlusal forces as an etiologic factor for noncarious lesions. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The presence of wear facets should be considered in the treatment of noncarious cervical lesions.