- Abstract -

Despite the fact that both dental caries and erosion are caused by teeth demineralization under the action of acids, the etiology, pathology and clinical distribution of caries and erosion are very different. Erosion represent the loss of surface dental tissues and occurs on those areas which are not covered by plaque. Often, erosion, abrasion and atrition combine to produce dental wear. This may be assessed by the index of hard dental substance loss.

The main sources of acids are diet, stomach and the environment. Another risk factor in a patient is the salivary flow-xerostomia.

Prevention is based upon early identification of erosion, establishing the cause/causes and proper treatment. The use of fluorinated tooth pastes, mouth rinses and gels must be encouraged.