The subjects of this study were 26 lactovegetarians and their age- and sex-matched controls. Clinical and radiologic examinations were made and samples of wax-stimulated whole saliva were collected. Dental erosions were recorded and documented with photographs and plaster models. Incipient, moderate and grave erosive defects were observed in 26.9%, 19.2% and 30.8% of the lactovegetarians, respectively. In controls, however, no erosions were observed. When tested by multiple linear regression analysis, the main factors affecting dental erosions were the rate of flow of saliva, and consumption of vinegar and vinegar conserves, citrus fruits and acidic berries.