Dentinal hypersensitivity (DH) is a common clinical condition usually associated with exposed dentinal surfaces. It can affect patients of any age group and most commonly affects the canines and premolars of both the arches. By removing the etiological factors, the condition can be even prevented from occurring or recurring. There are various treatment modalities available which can be used at home or may be professionally applied. The “at home” desensitizing agents include toothpastes, mouthwashes or chewing gums and they act by either occluding the dentinal tubules or blocking the neural transmission.

Dentine hypersensitivity is characterized by short, sharp pain arising from exposed dentine in response to stimuli, typically thermal, evaporative, tactile, osmotic or chemical and which cannot be ascribed to any other dental defect or pathology.

Teeth Wear Can Be Treated

A slightly higher incidence of DH is reported in females than in males. While DH can affect the patient of any age, most affected patients are in the age group of 20–50 years, with a peak between 30 and 40 years of An accurate diagnosis is important before starting the management of DH. DH has features which are similar to other conditions like caries, fractured or chipped enamel/dentine, pain due to reversible pulpitis, and post dental bleaching sensitivity. The etiological factors include faulty tooth brushing, poor oral hygiene, premature contacts, gingival recession because of periodontal therapy or physiological reasons, and exogenous/endogenous non-bacterial acids.

Management

Patients are often prescribed over-the-counter desensitizing agents. These “at home” desensitizing agents include toothpastes, mouthwashes and chewing gums. Toothpastes containing 5% potassium nitrate and 0.454% stannous significantly reduced the DH, also reduce post-bleaching sensitivity. The desensitizing toothpastes should be used with the help of a toothbrush with soft bristles. Patients should be advised to use minimal amount of water to prevent the dilution of the active agent. Along with the desensitizing toothpastes, mouthwashes and chewing gums containing potassium nitrate, sodium fluoride or potassium citrate are also recommended. The results of “at-home” desensitizing therapy should be reviewed after every 3–4 weeks. If there is no relief in DH, “in-office” therapy should be initiated.