The psychology of tooth wear

Abstract

Aim To review the main psychological and mental conditions that are manifested dentally in the form of tooth wear. These conditions include depression, eating disorders, and alcohol and drug use disorders. The paper will also review the comorbidity of these conditions and the relevance of other medical conditions and lifestyle factors, such as gastroesophageal reflux disorder, smoking and diet, in the expression of tooth wear. Conclusion A holistic, multidisciplinary, healthcare approach is required in management of tooth wear patients with underlying mental health disorders. Dentists and Dental Care Professionals can have an important role in identifying these mental disorders through the observed tooth wear. They can also play a key role in monitoring patients' response and compliance to medical treatment through the monitoring of tooth wear progression and expression. © 2012 Special Care Dentistry Association and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.