Consensus-based recommendations for the diagnosis and management of dentin hypersensitivity

Abstract

These consensus recommendations for the diagnosis and management of dentin hypersensitivity were developed by a broadly constituted board of dentists and dental hygienists drawn from general dental practice, specialist practice, academia and research from across Canada, joined by 2 international dentists with subject matter expertise. The need for consensus recommendations was made evident by the lack of clear and robust evidence in the dental literature, as well as confusion about diagnosis and management demonstrated by an educational needs assessment survey. High prevalence of the condition, underdiagnosis and widespread availability of noninvasive, efficacious and inexpensive preventive treatment further underscored the need for direction. This paper outlines the key elements of the scientific basis for the causes, diagnosis and management of dentin hypersensitivity; where such evidence is deficient, the document relies on the compound experience of the board. A simple algorithm was developed to guide clinicians through the diagnostic process and assist them in determining appropriate case management. Finally, the board makes a series of recommendations to raise awareness, to improve dental education, to develop symbols for charting, to develop an index for case assessment and for further research.