Prevalence of non-carious cervical lesions among the general population of the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

INTRODUCTION As non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs) may compromise aesthetics and function, knowledge of their aetiological covariables enhances management of clinical complaints and success of restorative treatments. AIMS The primary aim of this study was to assess the presence of NCCLs among the general population of the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina and the potential association with patient-related risk factors. METHODS A prevalence study of NCCLs included 738 respondents from eight towns/municipalities. Two dental practitioners examined all respondents. NCCLs were diagnosed according to the Smith and Knight tooth wear index, measured using a Williams periodontal probe. Data regarding risk factors were obtained through a structured questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyse the association of risk factors and the occurrence of NCCLs. RESULTS Non-carious cervical lesions were diagnosed in 384 (52%) respondents. Multivariate regression analysis showed that several variables were independently associated with the risk of developing NCCLs, including frequent consumption of acid food (P = 0.001), frequent consumption of acid drinks (P = 0.001), retaining drink in the mouth (P = 0.001), alcohol consumption (P = 0.030), bruxism (P = 0.018) and gastro-oesophageal reflux (P = 0.023). First mandibular premolars were the most affected teeth (left: 46.0%; right: 44.0%), followed by the second right maxillary premolars (37.3%), second left maxillary premolars (33.6%) and finally by the first right maxillary premolars (34.0%). CONCLUSION The results of the current study suggest that NCCLs occur frequently and have a multifactorial aetiology. The lowest prevalence was recorded among individuals younger than 20 years of age. As the majority of risk factors are modifiable, regular dental care could lead to the early detection of NCCLs.