Prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity in Thai patients

Objective: Dentine hypersensitivity is widely found in various population with different prevalence values. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity in a group of Thai population and its associated aetiological factors among patients visiting at Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University. Method: The investigation was carried out in 420 patients. Questionnaires were used to obtain general, dental, behavioral and dentine hypersensitivity related symptom data. The diagnosis of dentine hypersensitivity was confirmed by air blow from a triple syringe and exploration. The data were analyzed and exhibited in percentage frequency distribution. Chi-square test was used to analyze the association between sensitive teeth and various aetiological factors. Level of statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Out of 420 patients, 129 patients (30.7%) were diagnosed with 198 dentine hypersensitivity teeth. Women were affected more than men (29.5% vs 70.5%). The most common age range for dentine hypersensitivity was between 30-39 years old (34.1%). The lower left sextant was the most frequency reported area for sensitivity (18.6%, n=24, 81 teeth).The most common initiating factor was cold drink (32.8%, n=42). Hard food and acidic fruits were found significantly associated with sensitive teeth. Conclusion: The prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity in a group of Thai population was 30.7%