Background: Tooth wear, defined as the non-bacterial loss of dental hard tissue through chemical or mechanical processes, is a growing concern due to its potential to cause hypersensitivity, aesthetic issues, and functional impairment. Despite being a natural part of aging, severe tooth wear can significantly impact oral health. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of tooth wear and identify associated risk factors among the 18-30-year-old student population in Modinagar, Ghaziabad, using the Exact Tooth Wear Index.

Methods: A cross-sectional, community-based survey was conducted from 2022 to 2023 among 1,102 students from various educational institutions in Modinagar. Stratified random sampling was used to ensure representation across different degree programs. A single calibrated examiner conducted clinical examinations, and data were collected using a structured proforma. The Exact Tooth Wear Index was employed to categorize the severity of tooth wear. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression.

Results: The overall prevalence of tooth wear was 62.3%. The highest prevalence was observed in the 18-21 age group (68.7%). Males exhibited a slightly higher prevalence (62.7%) compared to females (61.9%). Significant risk factors included smoking (AOR = 2.1), high stress levels (AOR = 2.3), alcohol consumption (AOR = 1.8), poor brushing habits (AOR = 1.6), and frequent soft drink consumption (AOR = 1.4). The severity of tooth wear was particularly high among smokers and those with high-stress levels.

Conclusion: The study reveals a high prevalence of tooth wear among young adults in Modinagar, with significant associations identified between tooth wear and various lifestyle and behavioral factors. The findings highlight the need for targeted public health interventions focusing on education and behavior modification to reduce the risk factors associated with tooth wear.