Dentine hypersensitivity: its prevalence, aetiology and clinical management

Dentine hypersensitivity can be a frustrating condition to treat. The most common form of treatment is use of a desensitizing dentifrice, but for many patients this may provide only partial pain relief and recurrence is common. Recent research has provided several important findings which may serve as a basis for refining the approach to dentine hypersensitivity management, and for improving the success of treatment. This paper reviews the research and outlines a management system which transfers readily to clinical practice.