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Neurophysiological mechanisms of dentin hypersensitivity
M Närhi1, V Kontturi-Närhi, T Hirvonen
1Department of Physiology, University of Kuopio, Finland.
Proceedings of the Finnish Dental Society. Suomen Hammaslaakariseuran Toimituksia
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Hypersensitive teeth pain is linked to dentinal tubule condition, with open tubules increasing sensitivity. Inflammation may also sensitize nerves, causing pain even with blocked tubules.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Neuroscience
- Physiology
Background:
- Tooth hypersensitivity causes pain via stimuli like cold, hot, osmotic, or mechanical factors.
- Intradental A-type nerve fibers are identified as key players in dentin sensitivity, activated by the hydrodynamic mechanism.
- Dentin sensitivity is significantly influenced by the state of dentinal tubules, whether open or blocked.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms underlying dentin hypersensitivity.
- To explore the role of dentinal tubule patency and inflammation in tooth sensitivity.
- To understand the activation pathways of intradental nerves in response to various stimuli.
Main Methods:
- Review of animal experiments and clinical studies on dentin hypersensitivity.
- Analysis of the relationship between dentinal tubule condition and nerve activation.
- Exploration of potential alternative mechanisms beyond the hydrodynamic theory.
Main Results:
- Open dentinal tubules are more prevalent in sensitive teeth compared to non-sensitive areas.
- Blocking dentinal tubules effectively reduces nerve activation and sensitivity.
- Hypersensitivity can persist even with blocked tubules, suggesting additional activation mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- Dentin hypersensitivity is strongly correlated with open dentinal tubules and the hydrodynamic mechanism.
- Inflammation-induced nerve sensitization may contribute to hypersensitivity, even with blocked tubules.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex mechanisms of dentin hypersensitivity.