Dentine hypersensitivity: a review of its aetiology, pathogenesis and management

Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) is defined as pain arising from exposed dentine and represents a distinct clinical entity. Reported cases are increasing particularly among the younger age groups and are thought to be due to acidogenic diets, destructive habits, poor tooth brushing techniques, and the increased use of tooth whitening products. Dentine exposure may be due to a number of processes, both physical and chemical, that lead to either loss of enamel/ cementum or loss of gingival tissue. These causative factors seldom act in isolation and include erosion, abrasion, attrition, abfraction, bruxing, bleaching, medication, ageing, genetic conditions, gingival recession, and periodontal disease or procedures. There are diverse range of treatment products available, which aim at either occluding the dentinal tubules or blocking the neural transmission from the pulp. Most reversible options make use of chemical agents such as fluorides, oxalate, strontium or potassium salts, or dentine-bonding agents. Non-reversible options should only be employed after one or more of the reversible options have been attempted. These usually involve placement of permanent restorations, occlusal adjustments or periodontal flap surgery. Careful diagnosis, patient counseling and management strategies are crucial to the success of any intervention.