Dentin hypersensitivity among undergraduates in a university community

Omoigberai Bashiru Braimoh, Nzube Anthony Ilochonwu

Saudi Journal of Oral Sciences 2014 1(2):90-93

Background and Aim: There is limited data on dentin hypersensitivity (DH) among young adults in Africa. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and trigger factors associated with DH among young adults in a university community in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of 360 young adults, 188 males and 172 females, aged 18-33 years. All individuals answered questions regarding demography, self-reported dentin sensitivity, trigger factors, action taken, and impact of DH on quality of life. Statistical analysis used descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test. Results: The prevalence of DH was 228 (63.3%) among the surveyed population and was significantly higher in females as compared to males (P = 0.03). All the participants who reported DH were right-handed. Among the participants with DH, majority 139 (61.0%) have not taken any action. The major precipitant for the DH was a cold drink 78 (34.2%). Of the 228 who experienced DH, 92 (40.3%) indicated eating as the precipitant, 76 (33.3%) indicated tooth brushing and 22 (9.6%) indicated talking as the precipitant. Approximately, 30% of the participants expressed unhappiness due to tooth sensitivity. Individuals with functional and psychological disturbance were significantly more likely to visit a dentist. Conclusion: The prevalence of DH found in this study was higher than previously reported, suggesting an increase in the levels of sensitivity within the general population. All the participants were right-handed and left side of the mouth was the most commonly affected.

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