Dentine hypersensitivity ‐ A review

Abstract

A large number of compounds have been employed in the management of dentine hypersensitivity. The symptomatic nature of the condition and its variability poses many problems to any evaluation of effect. Several semi-quantitative methods of response have been used; however, at this time it is uncertain what advantages they hold over the patients' subjective assessment of improvement. A review of the clinical studies reveals that a positive result for every agent tested to date may be found. Nevertheless considerable placebo responses have been obtained and equivocal results are occasionally reported. The fluorides and metal salts, particularly of strontium, have been most studied when used either in solution or delivered in toothpaste formulations. For these compounds the literature contains considerable information concerning the reaction with dental hard tissues which can be extrapolated into hypotheses for the modes of action in relieving dentine hypersensitivity. Moreover, some in vitro studies provide useful information concerning the effects of certain compounds on dentine, and are consistent with the clinical data. Unfortunately, contradictory findings and anomalies between clinical and in vitro effects still prevent the development of a sound clinical basis for the treatment of the condition. Moreover, there is a need to recognise those factors which predispose to dentine exposure, if the prevention of the occurrence or re-occurrence of hypersensitivity is to be achieved.

Strontium effects on root dentin tubule occlusion and nanomechanical properties

“…Thuy et al showed co-presence of appropriate levels of fluoride and strontium showed synergistic effects in remineralizing artificial enamel lesions [21]. These findings are the foundation of using strontium salts in remineralizing tooth paste [22,23].…”

Dentin hypersensitivity: pain mechanisms and aetiology of exposed cervical dentin

“…Dentin hypersensitivity has been defined as the pain arising from exposed dentin, typically in response to chemical, thermal, tactile or osmotic stimuli that cannot be explained as arising from any other form of dental defect or pathology [13]. Tooth hypersensitivity can fit the criteria of several pain terms as described by Merskey [14] for the International Association for the Study of Pain.…”

“…At a clinical level, even with magnification, sensitive dentin looks the same as non-sensitive dentin. There is little to indicate that hypersensitive dentin differs in any way from normal dentin and the pain mechanisms are probably the same [13]. The term “dentin hypersensitivity” can be questioned, with perhaps “dentin sensitivity” being a more accurate description.…”

“…The term “dentin hypersensitivity” can be questioned, with perhaps “dentin sensitivity” being a more accurate description. However, historically, dentin hypersensitivity has been a useful term as it has described a distinct clinical entity familiar to the dental profession [13]. Some individuals also experience a vague dull, throbbing ache, persisting for variable periods of time after the stimulus has been removed [19].…”

Diagnosis and Treatment Planning of Dentinal Hypersensitivity

“…44 Klinik olarak %0.4 lük kalay fluorür uygulamasının %0.717'lik sulandırılmış fluor çözeltisiyle birlikte kullanılmasının 5 dk gibi kısa bir sürede dentin hassasiyetini giderebildiği bildirilmiştir. 45 Ayrıca SEM çalışmalarında kalay fluorür açığa çıkmış dentin yüzeylerinde çözül-meyen kristaller oluşturduğu bildirilmiştir.…”