Frequency of various intensities of dentine hypersensitivity versus good and bad oral hygiene practices within Pakistani population

Background: Dentine sensitivity presents as short, sharp pain due to exposed dentine. To keep ourselves abreast with the challenging situation of increasing prevalence of dentine sensitivity within the country, this research was conducted to devise a better management strategy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and intensity of dentine sensitivity within patients reporting in Outpatient department (OPD) and to correlate good versus bad practices of dentine sensitivity patients with dentine sensitivity frequency. Methods: A questionnaire based cross sectional study was carried out in three dental institutes of Lahore, Pakistan over a period of four months. A sample size of 300 individuals was selected by non-probability convenient sampling technique. Information collected included demographic data, participant’s oral hygiene practices and intensity of dentine sensitivity in them. A numeric rating scale was used to record the degree of dentine sensitivity and descriptive statistics were presented as frequency and percentage. Results: 210 out of 300 patients reported dentine sensitivity (70%). Only 1/4th patients were highly qualified. 60% individuals were from low income group. 51% reported intensity as mild, 34% as moderate and 15% as severe sensitivity. Most common triggering factor was cold (36%). Good practices resulted in reduction in sensitivity. Conclusion: According to results, high frequency of dentine sensitivity is observed. More awareness needs to be created about factors leading to sensitivity focusing more on dietary patterns that cause erosive wear of enamel and reduction in aggressive brushing and parafunctional habits.