Causes of Dental Erosion: Extrinsic Factors

In this chapter, relevant aspects related to the extrinsic causes of dental erosion are addressed, reviewing the existing literature under the following main topics: diet, medications/oral care products, and environmental factors. In addition, lifestyle and behavioral aspects that modulate extrinsic erosion are presented. A wide range of evidence ranging from laboratory tests to clinical trials is available to support the association between extrinsic erosive agents and dental erosion. Relevant dietary factors include a wide range of acidic foods and beverages, although supplementation, especially with calcium compounds, can reduce or eliminate the erosive potential. Medications of acidic nature seem also to pose a risk, as well as some oral care products. Environmental factors have been reported and affect specific target populations, with stronger evidence related to battery and galvanizing workers