The rise of dentine hypersensitivity and tooth wear in an ageing population

Our understanding of the aetiology of Dentine Hypersensitivity (DH) has changed dramatically over the pastbfew decades. It is no longer an enigma, but other problems exist. The prevalence of DH in the world and in particular in the UK is increasing, predominately due to increases in tooth wear and the erosive dietary intake in the younger population. DH is increasingly reported in all age groups and is shown to provide clinical indication of an active erosive tooth wear. As the population ages and possibly retain teeth for longer, the likelihood of tooth wear and DH could increase. This paper describes the prevalence, aetiology, diagnoses and management of DH in relation to tooth wear. The aim is to raise awareness and to help inform a prevention strategy in an ageing population, which starts from younger age groups.