Restorative & Materials · single question
A patient presents with concave, saucer-shaped depressions on the cusp tips of posterior teeth. Which type of tooth wear is this?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Erosion (cupping)
Cupping (erosive cupping) = acid erosion creating concave, saucer-shaped depressions on cusp tips. Caused by gastric acid (GERD, bulimia) or acidic diet. Source confirms: cupping = erosion.
- A. Abrasion = external friction wear (toothbrush) — V-shaped/wedge lesions at the CEJ.
- B. Abfraction = wedge-shaped cervical lesion from eccentric loading/flexure — not a cupped occlusal surface.
- C. Attrition = tooth-to-tooth wear from grinding — flat, polished facets matching opposing teeth.
- D. CORRECT. Cupping = erosion. Concave occlusal depressions from acid dissolution. Linked to GERD, eating disorders, acidic diet.
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