The impact of dentine hypersensitivity on the quality of life: An overview

Title: The impact of dentine hypersensitivity on the quality of life: An overview

Abstract:

Dentine Hypersensitivity (DH) is a recognised clinical condition that is somewhat enigmatic in nature and impacts on the QoL of those who suffer from the problem. It is therefore imperative that clinicians not only identify and diagnose DH, but also be aware of the impact of DH on their patients’ QoL during their day-to day activities. One of the problems facing investigators when evaluating the actual impact of DH on the QoL is the differences between the patient’s and clinician’s perception on the extent and severity of the problem. The use of QoL questionnaire (patient/person centred) studies therefore have been utilized in clinical studies to consider the effect of DH on the QoL of those individuals with the problem on a day- to-day basis using QoL measures such as the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14 or OHIP-49) or the Dentine Hypersensitivity Experience Questionnaire (DHEQ). Clinicians should also be aware that dental procedures such as ultrasonic cleaning, air from dental air syringes may also be unpleasant for patients with DH and may cause considerable stress to an already anxious patient. It is therefore important to alleviate this stress whenever possible by providing the relevant information regarding these procedures in a relaxed and reassuring manner. The application of a desensitizing polishing paste or varnish together with a recommendation of a suitable desensitizing toothpaste or mouthwash may also benefit the patient following the procedures. The patient should also be reassured that any symptoms from these dental procedures may be transient and will resolve within one week. The clinician should also stress the importance of continuing professional oral care, together with the relevant information to the patient on maintaining good oral health (including recommendations on dietary intake and modification of any overzealous toothbrushing techniques) to successfully managing the impact of DH and improve the patient’s QoL during their daily activities. The aim of this short overview is to update clinicians on the impact of dentine hypersensitivity (DH) on the QoL of those suffering from this troublesome clinical condition and provide recommendations for reducing or eliminating the impact of DH and the QoL of those individuals who suffer from the condition.

Biography:

David Geoffrey Gillam graduated from Edinburgh Dental School in 1977 and has been actively involved in Dentistry for over 45 years. He has worked in both clinical practice and university dental hospitals, as well as in industry (1998-2001), initially with SmithKline Beecham and later with Block Drug Company. From 2003 to 2008, he worked with a Clinical Research Organization as a Research Dentist. He also served as a full-time Clinical Reader (Associate Professor) in Translational Research related to Dentistry at Bart’s and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, QMUL in London (2009-2022). Currently, David is a part-time Professor at QMUL, although he no longer practices dentistry. His primary research interest lies in Periodontology, particularly the management of dentine hypersensitivity, and he has also developed an interest in the development of dental materials for both professional and consumer use. David has published over 100 papers on various dental topics and has contributed to several books, both as an Editor and as a chapter contributor.