There has been much discussion concerning the pulpal
changes, if any, associated with sensitivity pain. Much of the
current opinion on dentin hypersensitivity is based on log-
ical and sensible supposition rather than scientific evidence
[10]. The status of the pulp in dentin hypersensitivity is not
known, although symptoms would suggest it unlikely that
there is an acute or chronic inflammation due to the length
of time symptoms persist. Most investigations report no
correlation between pathology and symptoms [17, 18]; how-
ever, studies are fraught with difficulty due to ethical con-
sideration. At a clinical level, even with magnification,
sensitive dentin looks the same as non-sensitive dentin.
There is little to indicate that hypersensitive dentin differs
in any way from normal dentin and the pain mechanisms are
probably the same [13]. The term “dentin hypersensitivity”
can be questioned, with perhaps “dentin sensitivity” being a
more accurate description. However, historically, dentin
hypersensitivity has been a useful term as it has described a distinct clinical entity familiar to the dental profession [13]. Some individuals also experience a vague dull, throb-
bing ache, persisting for variable periods of time after the stimulus has been removed [19]. Whilst this pain sensation could be part of the condition, it does not fit the definition, utilises C fibres in the innervation process and is highly likely to be due to pulpal inflammation, needing endodontic or exdontia management [10].