With increases in life expectancy and better retention of the dentition due to a combination of the use of fluoride and better oral hygiene practices, there has been increased attention to tooth wear. This review describes the factors affecting tooth cleaning and wear, discusses methods of measuring wear, and assesses the implications. It is concluded that tooth wear is a complicated process, comprising a number of different mechanisms, which may occur simultaneously and possibly synergistically. For the majority of the population, tooth wear should not reach clinically significant levels; however, excessive consumption of acidic food or drink could be problematic. Tooth brushing before an acid challenge is recommended, rather than doing so within an hour of receiving one. Tooth brushing with toothpaste in normal use is, however, concluded to be both safe and beneficial to oral health.
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