Method: Fifty-seven volunteers (15 male; 42 female) were assessed for dentine sensitivity. Their responses to tactile and thermal stimuli, and a subjective assessment of their sensitivity were determined on a 0-10 analogue scale. Details of the volunteers' history of sensitivity, oral hygiene and dietary habits were collated.
Results: Volunteers had at least three sensitive teeth (i.e. a positive response to tactile stimuli and a response to a thermal stimulus of >5). The majority brushed with their right hand (86%), twice a day (79%) with a manual toothbrush (70%). Over half of the volunteers consumed acid fruits (70%), fruit juice (53%) or carbonated drinks (54%) more than two/three times a week. Approximately one-third consumed wine (32%) and yoghurt (39%) more than two/three times a week. Most of the volunteers experienced sensitivity either when consuming cold food or drink (97%) or breathing cold air through their mouth (79%). Almost half of the volunteers also reported sensitivity to a tactile stimulus, i.e. toothbrushing (47%). The response to an osmotic stimulus, i.e. sugary food or drink, was less (40%). Most volunteers had attempted self-help to alleviate their symptoms (89%) with the most frequently used products being Sensodyne and Sensodyne F toothpastes. More than half of the volunteers (58%) regularly used a mouthwash whilst few reported receiving professional guidance or treatment (23%).
Conclusions: This study confirms previously published data (Chabanski et al. 1997) that dentine sensitivity is most frequently reported following a cold stimulus and that most patients have attempted self-help to alleviate their symptoms. A change in diet i.e. a reduction in acidic food and drink should also be recommended as a self-help treatment together with appropriate oral hygiene products.
Study supported by GABA International, Switzerland.