Dentin Hypersensitivity: Etiology, Diagnosis and Contemporary Therapeutic Approaches—A Review in Literature

The aim of this review was to provide dentists with comprehensive information regarding dentin hypersensitivity. This includes presenting its etiology, outlining the process of diagnosis, discussing clinical management strategies, and exploring technical approaches aimed at alleviating sensitivity. Dentin hypersensitivity is characterized by distinctive short, sharp pain arising from exposed cervical dentin in response to various external stimuli. The etiological factors cause two specific changes in teeth. First, the dentin surface must be exposed and denuded, which requires the loss of enamel or gingival recession combined with the loss of cementum. The second condition is the opening of the dentin tubules to allow the sensory mechanisms in the pulpal area following stimulation of the dentin surface. The accurate diagnosis of dentin hypersensitivity before receiving therapies is critical for successful treatment. The diagnosis of the disease starts through investigating the medical history of the patient and examination. In the examination, some techniques such as air stream and water rinsing are used in order to simulate the stimulating factors and to determine the degree of pain of the patient. Numerous materials and methods have been proposed to reduce or alleviate sensitivity. These materials typically exert their effects by either sealing dentin tubules or disrupting the transmission of nerve impulses. Generally, the primary approach in addressing dentin hypersensitivity involves the utilization of toothpaste containing potassium salts and fluoride. Newly introduced materials and in-office methods for treating dentin hypersensitivity include bioactive glasses, iontophoresis, CPP-ACP, and lasers.