The abrasive effect of glazed, unglazed, and polished porcelain on the wear of human enamel, and the influence of carbonated soft drinks on the rate of wear.

The abrasive effect of various porcelain surfaces on human enamel was studied in vitro. Sixty pairs of tooth-porcelain specimens were tested under a standard load and rate in distilled water and with and without intermittent exposure to a carbonated beverage. The amount of wear of enamel and porcelain specimens was determined after 5,000, 15,000, and 25,000 cycles. After 25,000 cycles there was no significant difference in the enamel wear between glazed and polished groups, but wear produced by the unglazed groups was significantly higher (P < .05). Overall, exposure to a carbonated beverage significantly increased the amount of enamel wear produced by all porcelain surfaces (P < .001). The finish of the porcelain surface did not influence its wear.