Which teeth surfaces are eroded due to nocturnal reflux?

Which teeth surfaces are eroded due to nocturnal reflux?

• A. Erosion of mandibular molars during sleep due to reduced saliva
• B. Gingival hyperplasia
• C. Increased enamel thickness
• D. Spontaneous whitening

Answer: (A)

Nocturnal reflux erodes tooth enamel because stomach acid repeatedly washes over the teeth while you’re asleep, and saliva’s buffering and cleansing help are reduced at night. When saliva flow is low, acid stays in contact with the teeth longer, increasing the chance of erosion. The mandibular molars are particularly affected in this scenario because, in the lying position, refluxate can pool toward the back of the mouth and reach the lower molar region more readily, leading to progressive enamel loss on those surfaces. Other choices describe conditions or changes not caused by reflux—gingival overgrowth, thicker enamel, or spontaneous whitening aren’t typical outcomes of nocturnal reflux erosion.

Nocturnal reflux erodes tooth enamel because stomach acid repeatedly washes over the teeth while you’re asleep, and saliva’s buffering and cleansing help are reduced at night. When saliva flow is low, acid stays in contact with the teeth longer, increasing the chance of erosion. The mandibular molars are particularly affected in this scenario because, in the lying position, refluxate can pool toward the back of the mouth and reach the lower molar region more readily, leading to progressive enamel loss on those surfaces. Other choices describe conditions or changes not caused by reflux—gingival overgrowth, thicker enamel, or spontaneous whitening aren’t typical outcomes of nocturnal reflux erosion.