Dentinal sensation and hypersensitivity. A review of mechanisms and treatment alternatives.

Dentinal hypersensitivity has long been a dilemma of both dentists and patients. With teeth being maintained longer, there has been an increased demand placed upon the dentist to manage the sensitivity of cervically exposed dentin. There has been much written on this subject. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current concepts thought to be responsible in dentinal sensation, and to review and critique the various treatment modalities for dentinal hypersensitivity.