Prevalence, awareness and predisposing factors of dentine hypersensitivity among adult patients in Dar es salaam

Abstract

Background: Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) has been defined as short or transient sharp pain of a rapid onset that arises from exposed dentine due to enamel loss and or denudation of cementum. Data on prevalence of DH in Tanzania is lacking however worldwide prevalence ranges from 3% to 57%. . Aim: To determine prevalence, level of awareness and predisposing factors of dentine hypersensitivity among adult patients who attended for dental treatment in Dar es salaam, Tanzania. Method: This hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted between July and September 2012 that involved 323 adults aged 18 years and above who attended public dental clinics in Dar es Salaam. Upon consented to participate, Sample were conveniently selected and self administered structured questionnaires were used to gather subject’s socio-demographic particulars and information related to DH from participants. Using a mouth mirror and WHO recommended probe the dentition and periodontal status was assessed and recorded. Tactile stimulus test was used during clinical examination to assess level of sensitivity of the respondents. Result: The male to female ratio of the 323 participants was approximately one (1:1.1) with age range of 18-72 years. Level of awareness on DH was 88.2%. About two thirds (63.2%) of respondents, self reported to have suffered from DH. Of the predisposing practices, cigarette smoking was found to be statistically significantly related to DH (p=0.007). The prevalence of clinically diagnosed DH was 46.4% and higher among males (52.7%) and age group 50-79 years (63.5%). Oral conditions diagnosed during clinical examination, namely, attrition, abrasion, erosion, gingival recession, periodontal pockets and plaque accumulation were statistically significantly (p≤ 0.05) related with DH. Of the participants with dentine hypersensitivity, those who visited the dentist were 54 (43.5%) and most (59.5%) did not take any action. Multivariate analysis confirm tooth abrasion, attrition and gingival recession to be the most important predictors of DH occurrence Conclusion: Respondent’s level of awareness and prevalence of clinically diagnosed DH was relatively high whereas tooth attrition, abrasion and gingival recession were observed to be the most important predictors for the development of DH. Recommendation • Similar studies should be conducted in other regions so as to establish the current status and data bank for DH in Tanzania. Preventive measures of DH need to be encouraged so as to maintain quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment of DH should be emphasized so as to reduce suffering and the burden of rehabilitation cost.