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Burke FM, Whelton H, Harding M, Crowley E, O’Mullane D, Cronin M, Kelleher V, Byrtek M. Fluoridation and tooth wear in Irish adults. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2010; 38: 415–421. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of tooth wear in adults in Ireland and its relationship with water fluoridation. The National Survey of Adult Oral Health was conducted in 2000/2001. Tooth wear was determined using a partial mouth examination assessing the upper and lower anterior teeth. A total of 2456 subjects were examined. In this survey, increasing levels and severity of tooth wear were associated with ageing. Men were more affected by tooth wear and were more likely to be affected by severe tooth wear than women. It was found that age, and gender were significant predictors of tooth wear ( P < 0.01). Overall, there was no significant relationship between fluoridation and tooth wear in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a national survey of adult dental health conducted in the Republic of Ireland in 1989/90 a total of 1,527 subjects aged 25 and older were examined for root surface caries. It was found that the prevalence of root surface caries was highest in older age groups and also amongst males, residents of non-fluoridated communities and those earning low incomes. Tooth loss masked the potential prevalence of root surface caries. With more persons retaining their natural teeth into middle and old age the prevalence of root surface caries is likely to increase in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]