Cervical dentin hypersensitivity. Part III: Resolution following occlusal equilibration

Objective: This retrospective study was designed to investigate changes of cervical dentin hypersensitivity (CDH) in response to occlusal equilibration. Method and materials: Written records for 250 active-care patients were randomly selected and analyzed for associations between CDH, and its resolution following occlusal equilibration. Patients in group A (treatment) and B (delayed treatment) received occlusal equilibration following the detection of verified CDH using the air indexing method. Group C patients were not detected with verified CDH during the study period of 17 years. The resolution of CDH was measured by the loss of a positive patient threshold response to air stimulation. Results: Significant associations existed between CDH, hyperfunction, parafunction, and abfractive lesions. Furthermore, it was found that occlusal equilibration resulted in the long-term resolution of CDH. Conclusions: The resolution of CDH by occlusal equilibration, thus negating the null hypothesis, suggests that further studies are indicated to evaluate the impact of these findings upon restoring and maintaining health of the masticatory system.