Prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity: A cross-sectional study in rural Punjabi Indians.

AIMS AND

OBJECTIVES

To study the prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity and related risk factors in rural population of Punjab, India.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A total of 650 subjects reporting dentine sensitivity were included in the study comprising of 270 males and 380 females. All the subjects completed an interview and the subjects reporting dentine hypersensitivity were examined further using air syringe to put a blast of air to confirm the diagnosis of dentine hypersensitivity. Periodontal attachment loss and gingival recession of all the sensitive teeth were examined and recorded.

RESULTS

The prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity was 25% in the oral test. The subjects receiving the treatment of hypersensitivity were only 15.1%. The older group in the 50-59 years had the highest number (98%) of subjects with dentine hypersensitivity. Most commonly affected teeth were mandibular incisors. The other factors related to dentine hypersensitivity were the socioeconomic status, lower education level, and access to dental care. The periodontal factors related to hypersensitivity were gingival recession and poor oral hygiene.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity was 25% in the rural population of Punjab.