Sensitivity Management

Managing Dentin Hypersensitivity

Here we discuss different approaches for managing dentin hypersensitivity, including the consensus recommendations from the Canadian Advisory Board on dentin hypersensitivity, 2003.

Steps For Managing Dentin Hypersensitivity¹

IDENTIFY

Observe patients’ subtle twinges during cleanings or other procedures²
Ask patients about symptoms²
Rule out other causes of pain, like caries²

EDUCATE

Increase patient awareness – they may be unaware that they’re using coping mechanisms³ such as changing how and what they eat and drink; avoiding brushing and even avoiding dental visits²
Help patients understand how sensitivity is impacting their behavior and quality of life^2,4
Advise them on correct brushing technique and support them to avoid aggressive brushing²

RECOMMEND

Recommend a soft bristled toothbrush and to use a sensitivity toothpaste twice daily²
Recommend Sensodyne and encourage consistent twice daily use, even after pain has been reduced²

Educating Your Patients

Patients should be educated on how to manage their dentin hypersensitivity through changes in lifestyle and daily oral hygiene habits. Recommendations could include:^1,5

Avoid aggressive toothbrushing
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and sensitivity toothpaste, twice daily
Schedule regular dental appointments

Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for patients with dentin hypersensitivity.

Visit www.sensodyne.com for more information.

Sensitivity Toothpastes Can Have Different Mechanisms Of Action^2,6

Occlusion

Dentin Tubule Occlusion

Toothpaste formulations that form a robust layer over and within dentin tubules.⁷

Active ingredient example: stannous fluoride.

Read more about stannous fluoride.
Desensitization

Nerve Desensitization

The active ingredient in toothpaste formulation decreases nerve excitability.⁸

Active ingredient example: potassium nitrate.

Read more about Potassium nitrate.