Prevalence and perception of self reported dentine hypersensivity among dentate populations in South-western Nigeria

Abstract

Aim: To determine by questionnaire the prevalence and perception of DH in general dentate populations in south western Nigeria. Study Design: A descriptive study of self reported dentine hypersensitivity among dentate populations selected by multistage sampling technique in south western Nigeria. Subjects and methods: A structured questionnaire was administered to 373 subjects [170males, 203females, mean age 37.1 (standard deviation +/- 15.8years)] selected by multistage sampling technique in 4 dental clinics in Nigeria. Analysis was done using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 12. Results: About 61% of the subjects (60.9%, n=227) reported to have experienced DH. Most of whom were of fifth decade, and significantly more in females (64.5%) and smokers (72.7%) than males (56.5%)[p<0.03] and non-smokers (59.7%) respectively. Approximately 62% (61.9%, n=231) could identify the nature of the pain experienced. Of these 38.1%, (n=88) perceived the condition as a severe problem, 30.3%, (n=70) perceived DH as a minor problem. Forty five percent of those who reported DH had sought professional treatment. Cold was the major stimulus (42.1%) for pain. Fifteen subjects (6%) used desensitising toothpaste (Sensodyne) during periods of discomfort. Of those who sought periodontal treatment (33.8%, n=126), only 23 (6.7%) reported discomfort after treatment. Conclusion: Self reporting of DH was similar to previous studies. However, a thorough clinical examination could determine a more accurate prevalence data. 

Key Words: prevalence, dentin hypersensitivity, dentate populations, South-western Nigeria