Assessment of knowledge and professional practices related to dentine hypersensitivity: Results from a practice-based research network (ReCOL) survey.

OBJECTIVES

Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) remains a common clinical challenge, and its pathogenesis is still poorly understood by many dental practitioners (DPs). While several international surveys have explored DPs' knowledge and practices regarding DH, European data remain scarce. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, opinions, diagnostic approaches, and management practices related to DH among French-speaking DPs in France and Belgium.

METHODS

A specifically designed French-language questionnaire was distributed online to members of the ReCOL practice-based research network in France and the Belgian Dental Medicine Society. Reponses from 489 DPs were considered for analysis (descriptive and statistical - U Mann-Whitney and Chi-squared test).

RESULTS

The findings revealed substantial variability in knowledge and clinical practices, both within and between the two countries. Significant relationships were also found between demographic characteristics (particularly age) and their knowledge and practices. Although >80 % identified fluid movement within dentinal tubules as a key pain mechanism, fewer than half reported confidence in diagnosing DH (France: 36.5 %; Belgium: 48.3 %), highlighting persistent uncertainties in clinical practice.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater awareness, more systematic screening strategies, strengthened initial and continuing education, and clearer evidence-based recommendations are needed to improve DH diagnosis and management.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: In France and Belgium, there is substantial variability in DPs' understanding, diagnostic approaches and management strategies toward DH. More importantly, DH remains insufficiently prioritized in daily clinical practice despite its high prevalence and its well-documented negative impact on patients' QoL. Many participants expressed a desire for additional education and continuing professional development regarding DH.