Prevalence and distribution of dentin hypersensitivity and plaque in a dental hospital population

Objective: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is a commonly reported dental probl em. Conflicting results on the degree of plaque accumulation at sites with DH have been reported. Therefore, the prevalence and distribution of DH and dental plaque were studied in a dental hospital population. Method and mat erials: A total of 302 adult patients were examined for the presence of DH by means of a questionnaire and intraoral examinations. Oral hygiene was me asured by Silness and Loe's Plaque Index. Results: The overall prevalence o f DH was 52.6%. Significantly more women complained of DH than men. Dentin hypersensitivity and Plaque Index scores were found to be significantly hig her in the older age group than in younger groups. Spearman's correlation t est revealed no correlation for DH with plaque. About half of the patients reported DH for a duration of within 1 month, while 23% claimed that their DH lasted for 1 to 5 years. Approximately 64% of the patients reported that sensitivity did not interfere with their ability to eat, drink, or brush t heir teeth, with slight to moderate discomfort, while 11.4% had a severe co ncern, thereby avoiding these activities most of the time. Of the patients, 17% received professional treatment, while 25% used desensitizing toothpas tes. Dentin hypersensitivity was found in all types of teeth, but was most common in first molars and mandibular incisors and canines. Conclusion: Bec ause there was no correlation for DH with plaque, a careful assessment of t he etiologic or predisposing factors must be considered before attempting t he management of patients complaining of hypersensitive teeth.