Conclusion

Sensitive teeth present a challenge for clients and for the professionals who care for them. Initial completion of a differential diagnosis to rule out other causes of tooth pain followed by a determination of the presence of the contributing factors of hypersensitivity (whenever possible) allows the clinician to manage the condition in ways that prevent further sensitivity. Additionally, it may be necessary to sequentially try a variety of treatment approaches to relieve the client’s pain.

Dental hygienists are often the first to encounter a client’s tooth sensitivity since dental hygiene care can elicit the hypersensitivity response from the tactile stimulus of instruments or the thermal stimulus of a cold water spray. Dental hygienists who have a complete understanding of the etiology of hypersensitivity, including management and preventive approaches, will be able to provide appropriate palliative and preventive care.