Treatment of noncarious cervical lesions: when, why, and how

Noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs) involve the loss of hard tissue from the cervical areas of teeth through processes unrelated to caries. NCCLs are nowadays a common pathology caused by changes in lifestyle and diet. The prevalence and severity of cervical wear increase with age. It is generally accepted that the lesions are not generated by a single factor but result from a combination of factors. Among the factors proposed to be related to the formation and progression of NCCLs are biocorrosion (erosion), friction (abrasion), and possibly occlusal stress (abfraction). The clinical appearance of NCCLs can vary depending on the type and severity of the etiologic factors involved. Practitioners should follow a checklist to achieve an accurate diagnosis of the etiology of multifactorial NCCLs. The successful prevention and management of NCCLs require an understanding of the etiology and risk factors, including how these change over time in individual patients. The decision to monitor NCCLs rather than intervene should be based on the progression of the lesions and how they compromise tooth vitality, function, and esthetics. Treatment options include techniques to alleviate dentin hypersensitivity and the placement of an adhesive restoration, eventually in combination with a root coverage surgical procedure. An adhesive restoration is considered the last treatment option for NCCLs. Based on their excellent esthetic properties and good clinical performance, there is a general indication to place composite restorations for NCCLs. The clinical performance of these restorations is highly product-dependent, particularly regarding the adhesive system used. The type of composite material seems to have no significant influence on the clinical performance of NCCL restorations in clinical trials. It is much more important that the operator carries out the clinical procedure correctly. Marginal degradation is frequently seen during aging. Yearly maintenance with the eventual repolishing of the restoration margins will lengthen the lifespan of the restorations.