Dental approach to erosive tooth wear in gastroesophageal reflux disease

Background: The duration of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), the frequency of reflux, the pH and type of acid, and the quality and quantity of saliva affect the severity of dental erosion due to GERD.Objective: To summarize the diagnostic protocol and treatment of dental erosion due to GERD.Methods: A Medline literature search was performed to identify articles associated with a dental approach to GERD.Results: The dental professional must carry out a diagnostic protocol, which includes collecting data on the patient’s medical and dietary history, occupational/recreational history, dental history, and oral hygiene methods. Intraoral, head and neck, and salivary function examinations should be performed to expose the dental implications of GERD symptoms.Conclusion: Diagnosing the cause of erosive tooth wear can help prevent further damage. Patients must be informed about how to prevent GERD.Keywords: Dental erosion, gastro-esophageal reflux diseas