Dentine hypersensitivity--guidelines for the management of a common oral health problem.

UNLABELLED: Dentine hypersensitivity (DHS) remains a worldwide under-reported and under-managed problem, despite making some dental treatments more stressful than necessary and having a negative impact on the patient's quality of life. This article is designed to build dental professionals' confidence and remove any confusion regarding the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of sensitive teeth caused by dentine hypersensitivity in those patients known to be at risk. There is a need for simple guidelines, which can be readily applied in general practice. However, it is also obvious that one strategy cannot suit all patients. This review describes a DHS management scheme for dental professionals that is linked to management strategies targeted at three different groups of patient. These patient groups are: 1) patients with gingival recession; 2) treatment patients with toothwear lesions; and 3) patients with periodontal disease and those receiving periodontal treatment. The authors also acknowledge the role of industry as well as dental professionals in a continuing role in educating the public on the topic of sensitive teeth. It is therefore important that educational activities and materials for both dental professionals and consumers use common terminology in order to reduce the possibility for confusion. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This review article provides practical, evidence-based guidance on the management of dentine hypersensitivity for dental professionals covering diagnosis, prevention and treatment. Sensitivity associated with gingival recession, toothwear and periodontal disease and periodontal treatment are specifically addressed in the article.

Dental workforce development as part of the oral health agenda for Brunei Darussalam.

BACKGROUND: Brunei Darussalam is a Sultanate with a Malay Islamic monarchy. There are high levels of dental disease among its 406,200 population. The population's oral health needs require an integrated blend of primary and specialist care, together with oral health promotion. PROCESS AND OUTCOMES: This paper describes the planning and measures taken to address these needs. In accordance with an oral health agenda published and launched in 2008, focusing on access, health promotion and prevention, and the education and training of the dental workforce, the Brunei Darussalam Ministry of Health is seeking to improve oral health status and reduce the burden of oral disease. It also seeks to transform the country's oral health services into a preventatively orientated, high-quality, seamless service underpinned by the concept of 'teeth for life'. In the process of effecting this transition, the Brunei Darussalam Ministry of Health is developing a dental workforce fit for future purpose, with an emphasis on a modern approach to skill mix. An important element of this programme has been the development of a highly successful Brunei Darussalam Diploma in Dental Therapy and Dental Hygiene. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the Brunei Darussalam oral health agenda and, in particular, the forward-looking programme of dental workforce development is a model for other countries facing similar oral health challenges.