DENTAL EROSION - A PRESENTING FEATURE OF GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE

Objective: To investigate the association between gastro-oesophageal r eflux and dental erosion. Methods: Observation of dental erosion patte rns suggestive of gastro-oesophageal reflux and a review of the litera ture. Results: Gastro-oesophageal reflux with regurgitation into the m outh will cause acid erosion of the palatal surfaces of the upper inci sor teeth in susceptible individuals. Eroded teeth can be a presenting feature in diagnosing gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). In pa tients without any obvious symptoms of reflux, the teeth may be the on ly clinical sign indicating the presence of GORD. Conclusions: Damage to teeth after long periods of undiagnosed GORD can be catastrophic re quiring very expensive and complicated dental treatment. It is importa nt that the appearance of the palatal surfaces of the upper incisor te eth are examined in patients suspected of suffering from GORD.