Restorative & Materials · single question
Cupping (saucer-shaped concavities) on the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth is MOST likely caused by:
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Correct answer: A. Acid erosion
Cupping (cup-shaped depressions on occlusal surfaces, often with amalgam restorations appearing raised above the surrounding enamel) is a classic sign of acid erosion. The acid preferentially dissolves the enamel around harder materials (amalgam), creating a cup-shaped depression. Common causes: gastric reflux (GERD), bulimia, frequent consumption of acidic beverages or citrus.
- A. ✅ CORRECT – Cupping on occlusal surfaces is pathognomonic for acid erosion, where acid dissolves enamel around restorations.
- B. ❌ Attrition from bruxism creates flat wear facets on cusp tips and enamel — not cup-shaped depressions.
- C. ❌ Abfraction causes wedge-shaped cervical lesions at the CEJ from tensile stress — not occlusal cupping.
- D. ❌ Abrasion from brushing typically affects buccal cervical surfaces — not occlusal cupping.
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