Neurological Responses in Patients with Dentine Hypersensitivity

Dentine hypersensitivity (also known as sensitive teeth) is a common dental condition in which the dentine, a layer of sensitive hard tissue under the enamel of the teeth, becomes exposed making the teeth sensitive to stimuli, such as hot and cold. It poses a significant challenge for clinicians and affects patients' quality of life.

The overall aim of the study is to understand if a way of measuring brain activity (electroencephalography \[EEG\]) shows a response to tooth stimulation, and see how these responses may be different in patients with dentine sensitivity.

EEG records brain signals and can provide information about how the brain processes painful stimuli. EEG recording is a non-evasive and painless procedure. It involves using a cap with small sensors called electrodes to pick up brain signals. During the EEG assessment appointment, brain signals will be recorded throughout the duration when cold temperatures and short bursts of air are applied to the tooth. Brain signals recorded during tooth stimulation from participants with and without dentine sensitivity will then be compared to explore if there are any differences.

The investigators hope that EEG responses could be helpful to objectively assess dentine sensitivity, further the understanding of brain processing of dental pain, and allow the comparison of the effectiveness of different treatment options in the future.

This information may help to improve treatments and the quality of life for patients with dentine sensitivity and potentially other types of dental pain.