title: In-office treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity.
abstract: Dentinal hypersensitivity is a common dental complaint, especially in periodontal patients. It is believed to be mediated by a hydrodynamic mechanism in which various stimuli result in increased fluid flow in dentinal tubules, thereby generating action potentials in associated nerve fibers. Although it is often perceived as mild discomfort by the patient, it can be severe. A variety of interventions has been used, although few have been subjected to rigorous study. This article surveys those in-office treatments that are available, and suggests directions for research so that clinicians may treat patients based on best evidence. Until such evidence is available, it seems prudent to employ therapies that are least likely to cause harm and are reversible.
authors.affiliation: Division of Periodontology, University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, 800 Rose Street, Room D-438, Lexington, KY 40536-0297, USA. malsa2@email.uky.edu
authors.forename: Mohanad
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Al-Sabbagh
authors.forename: Amanda
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Brown
authors.forename: Mark V
authors.initials: MV
authors.lastname: Thomas
mesh_terms: D000200:Action Potentials / Q000502:physiology; D003764:Dental Materials / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003770:Dental Offices; D003804:Dentin / Q000294:innervation; D003807:Dentin Sensitivity / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D019234:Dentinal Fluid / Q000502:physiology; D055094:Evidence-Based Dentistry; D005893:Gingivoplasty; D006801:Humans; D028022:Low-Level Light Therapy; D016239:MEDLINE; D009412:Nerve Fibers / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D003764:Dental Materials