The Prevalence of Tooth Wear in Adult Population and its Impact on Quality of Life: A Cross-sectional Study

Aim: The present study aims at exploring the prevalence of tooth wear and its impact on the quality of life (QoL) among adults in the Dakshina Kannada population. Materials and methods: A total of 206 dentate adults who visited the outpatient department of a private dental college were included in the study. During clinical examination, an assessment of tooth wear was done using basic erosive tooth index. It was categorized as none, mild, moderate, and severe. The impact of tooth wear on QoL was assessed using the oral health impact profile (OHIP-14). The associations between tooth wear measures and OHIP-14 were analyzed. Results: The basic erosive tooth index low score (range 3–8) was seen in 59 (22.85%). A medium score (range 9–13) was seen in 100 (71.3%), and a high score (14 and above) was seen in 47 (22.8%). Moderate and severe (high) tooth wear had an impact on QoL. Conclusion: Moderate and high tooth wear were noticed in the study population. Tooth wear has an impact on QoL. Along with clinical findings, the impact of tooth wear on QoL needs consideration by the dental professional so that they will be able to provide preventive or restorative management accordingly. Clinical significance: Early detection of tooth wear can be managed effectively and efficiently. This will be able to reduce discomfort, cost, and duration of the treatment needed. The impact on QoL also may be less.