To investigate the prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity among rural populations aged 30–69 years with mild dental fluorosis in China and the related risk factors in order to provide basis for the prevention and treatment of dentine hypersensitivity.
Method:
A village in which dental fluorosis was common was selected. This village was in northern China, and 1,250 residents ranging in age from 30–69 years old were randomly selected and subjected to clinical examination for dentine hypersensitivity. They also filled out a survey. Diagnosis of dentine hypersensitivity was based on the combination of the subject’s self-evaluation and clinical examination. Specifically, at room temperature, an air gun was used to blow a blast of compressed air 1 cm from the surface of the tooth, and the subject was to report whether irritation or pain was felt. Dental fluorosis was evaluated using Dean’s index (DI).
Result:
In the sampling area, fluoride concentration in the water was 1.15–1.50 mg/L, and the prevalence of dental fluorosis was 86.6%. The community fluorosis index was 1.47, and 122 (9.8%) of the participants were diagnosed with dentine hypersensitivity. Dentine hypersensitivity was most commonly observed in the lower incisors, and there was no significant difference between men and women. The most common factor causing dentine hypersensitivity was cold stimulation. Logistic regression analysis showed acid reflux to be the only risk factor for dentine hypersensitivity in the current study. Among subjects with dentine hypersensitivity, none took treatment measures, visited a hospital or clinic, or used anti-sensitivity toothpaste.
Conclusion:
The incidence of dentine hypersensitivity was low among rural populations with mild dental fluorosis in China. Oral health education must be improved in order to improve the oral health of local farmers.