OBJECTIVES

To perform systematic review and quantitative analysis of the literature on the association between gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and dental erosion in children.

METHODS

Databases were searched for randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, cross-sectional surveys and case-control studies that evaluated the association between GERD and dental erosion in children aged 1-18 years, without limitations on the language or year of publication. Data were pooled in random effects models. Data sources included Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Trip Pro, Cochrane Library, the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, ClinicaTrials.gov, Open Grey, Proquest Dissertations and Thesis and Google Scholar from inception to June 9, 2022.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies were included, of which twelve were used for meta-analysis. There were strong associations between GERD and enamel erosion with the subject as unit (odds ratio 4.46; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.93-10.30; n = 6774); dentine erosion with the subject as unit (odds ratio 13.39; 95% CI 4.17-42.94; n = 371); enamel erosion with the tooth as unit (odds ratio 3.29; 95% CI 1.36-7.95; n = 4637); as well as dentine erosion with the tooth as unit (odds ratio 5.91; 95% CI, 2.35-14.86; n = 4637). In cohort studies, GERD was associated with a higher risk of enamel erosion with the subject as a unit (relative risk 1.88, 95% CI 1.22-2.92; n = 1411).

CONCLUSIONS

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease is associated with dental erosion in children. The heterogeneity of GERD definition should be considered when interpreting the present work.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

There is a positive association between GERD and dental erosion in children. Dentists should emphasise timely detection and management of the underlying factors of dental erosion in GERD. Future studies should define paediatric GERD according to a universal guideline to better enhance patient care.