Evaluation of prevalence of dental erosion in swimmers in the metropolitan city of India: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: Development and research in medical sciences have increased the life expectancy of the masses resulting in the retention of more teeth in the oral cavity. This leads to the occurrence of various wasting diseases of teeth like attrition, abrasion, and erosion. Aim and Objectives: This study evaluates the prevalence of Dental Erosion (DE) and its severity among swimmers of chlorinated pool water in a metropolitan city in India. Material and Methods: In this study, 508 young and adult regular swimmers (including competitive swimmers) from various swimming pools were selected and examined clinically for the presence of DE. A structured questionnaire form was formulated to record the history of habitual swimming activity, diet, gastroesophageal reflux disease, history of intake of medications and acidic beverages, etc. for each swimmer. The data obtained were analysed and statistically evaluated. Result: Among 508 swimmer participants, 429 were males and 79 were females. Out of these 338 (66.54%), including 293 (57.67%) male and 45 (8.8%) female swimmers showed DE. The mean age of the swimmer was 33.64 years. The majority of swimmers showed Grade I (n=260, 76.92%) type severity followed by Grade II (n=73, 21.59%) and Grade III (n=5, 1.47%). 79 (15.55%) swimmers showed teeth sensitivity. The statistical test showed a positive correlation between the duration of swimming activity and the non-use of dental protective measures with the severity of DE (P<0.05). Conclusion: Swimmer’s erosion is mainly attributed to the acidic pH of pool water associated with chlorine amount and its severity depends upon the duration and period of swimming irrespective of the swimmer’s gender.