Rate and pattern of progression of non-carious cervical lesions

Non-carious cervical lesions involve progressive loss of tooth structure, generally over a period of many years. Only one previous study has measured the rate of lesion development, based on three teeth from one subject (Pintado et al 2000). Objectives: To determine the rate at which incipient human non-carious cervical lesions progress, and the patterns of loss of enamel and dentine. Methods: Fourteen untreated early lesions in three subjects, representing all tooth types, were assessed at baseline and again one year later. Polyvinylsiloxane impressions of the teeth and adjacent tissues were poured in dental stone and the entire buccal surface of involved teeth was profiled using a contact stylus digitising system. Baseline and one-year profiles were fitted, and changes in the extent, maximum depth, mean depth and volume of the lesions were determined using AnSur-NT surface analysis software. Results: Changes in lesions over one year varied among subjects and teeth. An increase in depth of the lesions of up to 170 µm was observed, with an average increase in maximum depth of 53 µm. Volumetric loss averaged 0.1 mm³ (range: 0-0.3 mm³). Conclusions: Both the rate and pattern of progression of incipient NCCL were highly variable. Lesions tended to occur in dentine rather than enamel and to increase asymmetrically. Supported by a grant from National Health and Medical Research Council Australia