ABSTRACT
The majority of diseases in the oral cavity are related to the teeth and gum. Dental disorders are considered a public health burden worldwide, although tremendous improvement has been made in the last two decades in both levels of personal oral hygiene and professional dental care (Petersen et al. 2005, Baghramian et al. 2009). The most prevalent oral diseases today are dental caries (tooth decay) and periodontal diseases (tooth loss). Historically, these dental ailments have always been the main threat to human oral health. In recent years, concern of tooth wear has gained increased attention due to the changes in behavior and life style with our modern society. Aberrant activity of oral functions may also infl ict damage to the teeth. One important example is the reduced production of saliva leading to xerostomia (dry mouth) and serious complications of xerostomia-induced caries and increased tooth wear.
