Chewing performance of patients with worn dentition before and after restorations: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: Tooth wear is a multifactorial complex process related to the loss of dental tissue, due to chemical or mechanical processes, by abrasion, attrition, erosion. Restorative treatment represents an attempt to rebuild and recreate the lost structure. Objective: This scoping review aims to investigate whether restorative treatment of worn dentition (either with direct or indirect adhesive composite adhesive procedures or with prosthetic techniques) can have an impact on the masticatory performance parameters. Methods: A scoping review was conducted on multiple databases (Pubmed, Medline CENTRAL, ICTRP), following the PRISMA guidelines. Abstracts of research papers were screened for suitability, and full-text articles were obtained for those who satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Only one article meet the inclusion criteria of the review. Restorative treatment of worn dentition although have a positive impact on the self-report ability to chew, has no effect on the masticatory performance test. Conclusion: At the moment, not enough evidence to comment on the actual therapeutic role of restorative treatment on tooth wear is available. Clinicians, before taking any clinical decision, should carefully discuss with patients the needs and expectations of the treatment plan.