An evaluation of two methods for the quantitation of dentinal hypersensitivity.

In a well-controlled, double-blind, parallel study design using burnishing with 33% sodium fluoride paste and "sham" burnishing with a placebo paste, both a cold air stimulus method and an electrical stimulus method can discriminate between levels of dentinal hypersensitivity. Correlation between the scores obtained by the methods was significant. The electrical stimulus method discriminated between the sodium fluoride and placebo effects to a greater degree than did the cold air method. Use of these methods should broaden the scientific foundation and rationale for evaluating the condition of dentinal hypersensitivity and the agents designed for treatment of persons with this condition.