Question

A male patient presented to the clinic complaining of heavy occlusal forcesOn examination, wedge-shaped lesions were observed on the cervical region of the facial surfaces of the maxillary premolarsWhat is the most likely diagnosis?

• A. Abfraction
• B. Erosion
• C. Abrasion
• D. GERD

Hint:

Wedge-shaped cervical lesion + Heavy occlusal forces → Think Abfraction.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Clinical Features.
The patient presents with heavy occlusal forces and wedge-shaped cervical lesions on the facial surfaces of premolarsThese lesions are typically sharp, angular, and located at the cervical region
Step 2: Mechanism of Abfraction.
Abfraction is caused by occlusal stress leading to flexure of the tooth at the cervical areaRepeated tensile and compressive stresses cause microfracture of enamel and dentin, producing characteristic wedge-shaped defects
Step 3: Excluding Other Options.
Erosion is caused by chemical dissolution and produces smooth, shallow lesions
Abrasion results from mechanical wear such as aggressive tooth brushing and usually presents as broader, saucer-shaped defects
GERD causes erosion due to acid exposure, not sharp wedge-shaped lesions
Step 4: Conclusion.
Since the lesions are wedge-shaped and associated with heavy occlusal forces, the most likely diagnosis is Abfraction