[Clinical study on the relationship between tooth abrasion and the habits of chewing betel nut].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between tooth abrasion and long-term chewing betel nut.

METHODS

The time, frequency, clinical features of occlusal abrasion, and results of pantomography were studied in 64 patients with the habits of chewing betel nut.

RESULTS

The occlusal surfaces of all patients had abrasion from mild to severe. The longer the chewing time, the more severe the occlusal abrasion (P < 0.01). The occlusal abrasion became more severe with the increase in chewing frequency (P < 0.01). The severe abrasion was accompanied with periapical periodontitis and the resorption of alveolar bone.

CONCLUSION

Long-term chewing betel nut can result in the abrasion of occlusal surface.