Evaluation of Dentine Hypersensitivity in Adult Population with Chronic Periodontitis Visiting Government Dental College & Hospital, Srinagar

ABSTRACT

Background: A working knowledge of the prevalence of hypersensitivity in chronic periodontitis patients, is imperative to adequate prognostication, treatment planning and outcome. The present study, is a primary report of the prevalence of dentinal hypersensitivity, in relation to various patient characteristics (demographic and clinical) in chronic periodontitis patients visiting Government Dental College and Hospital, Srinagar, J&K.Material & Methods:A cross-sectional study design was used to evaluate 100 male and 100 female patients diagnosed with chronic periodontitis both by questionnaire and clinical test for the presence of dentinal hypersensitivity, in relation to various features.Results:An overall prevalence of 34% was found for self-reported and 42 % for actual dentinal hypersensitivity in chronic periodontitis patients. It was highest in females, undergraduates, rural subjects and canine teeth. The most common provoking stimulus was cold, and duration of hypersensitivity was less than 6 months. Clinical attachment loss was found to be more often associated with hypersensitivity than clinical gingival recession.76% of the patients reporting hypersensitivity also reported the use of desensitizing toothpaste.The reported prevalence of hypersensitivity was in concordance with other reports from dental college clinics. The particular geo-social background of the study location could have contributed to the observed difference in precipitating factors, effect of diet, and treatment seeking behaviour. Conclusion: The prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity in chronic periodontitis patients was 34% according to questionnaire and 42% according to the results of clinical test. Periodontal attachment loss was found to be could be an earlier indicator or a possible risk factor of DH, indicating the need for clinical initiative in the management of hypersensitivity in chronic periodontitis patients.