Overview
Disorder of hard tissues of teeth encompasses conditions affecting tooth enamel, dentin, and cementum, including caries, erosion, and developmental anomalies. These conditions can lead to structural weakening and functional impairment of teeth 1.Diagnosis
Clinical examination to assess tooth structure integrity and presence of lesions.
Radiographic imaging (e.g., bitewing, periapical X-rays) to evaluate extent of damage and bone loss 1.
Microscopic analysis or biopsy in cases of suspected developmental anomalies or severe erosion 1.Management
First-line treatments:
- Fluoride therapy (topical or systemic) to strengthen enamel and remineralize lesions 1.
- Dental fillings or restorations for carious lesions to prevent further decay 1.
Adjunctive treatments:
- Dietary counseling to reduce intake of erosive substances (e.g., acidic foods, beverages) 1.
- Use of mouthguards in cases of traumatic injury risk 1.Special Populations
Elderly: Increased risk of tooth wear and decay due to reduced salivary flow; emphasize preventive measures like fluoride use and regular dental check-ups 1.
Comorbidities: Patients with conditions affecting nutrition (e.g., malnutrition) may require tailored dietary advice to minimize tooth erosion 1.Key Recommendations
Implement regular radiographic assessments to monitor progression of hard tissue disorders in adults 1 (Evidence: Moderate).
Recommend fluoride treatments as a primary preventive measure for both caries and erosion 1 (Evidence: Moderate).
Tailor dietary advice based on individual risk factors, particularly emphasizing reduction in acidic food and drink consumption 1 (Evidence: Moderate).References
1 Shimizu Y, Hayakawa H, Takada M, Okada T, Kiyama M. Hemoglobin and adult height loss among Japanese workers: A retrospective study. PloS one 2021. link