Cervical abrasion in relation to toothbrushing and periodontal health.

Cervical abrasion and some factors related to oral hygiene habits and periodontal health were investigated in 250 subjects aged 21-60 yr. The subjects were considered dentally aware since they had visited their dentist on a regular basis over the past several years. A high occurrence rate of cervical abrasion was noted with 85% of subjects exhibiting at least one superficial lesion. Manifest or deep lesions, although less common, were present in 22% of subjects. Both prevalence and severity increased with age. The severity expressed as the mean number of lesions was 7.3 for the total sample. It increased significantly with calculus index, frequency of periodontal pockets, and reduction of the alveolar bone height. No significant associations were observed between abrasion and oral hygiene factors. It is concluded that cervical abrasion, although most likely related to toothbrushing, may not be synonymous with periodontal health. Ineffective toothbrushing may not only fail to prevent disease but may also cause cervical abrasion.