At our clinic, we recently treated a male patient in his early 40s who came in with a common but troublesome issue, tooth sensitivity in the upper left region. He had been experiencing discomfort for the past few weeks, especially while brushing and drinking cold beverages. Thankfully, there was no pain or swelling involved.
Medical & Dental History
- No relevant medical conditions
- No history of trauma or habits like bruxism
- Patient reported using a medium-bristle toothbrush with horizontal scrubbing for years
- No previous dental restorations in the area
Clinical Examination
On examining tooth 24, we observed:
- A well-defined, V-shaped cervical abrasion on the buccal surface
- Exposed dentin, but no secondary caries
- Positive response to pulp vitality tests
- Healthy surrounding gums
Diagnosis
- Cervical abrasion caused by aggressive brushing
- Dentin hypersensitivity as a result of mechanical wear
Treatment Objective
Our goal was to
- Eliminate sensitivity
- Protect the exposed dentin
- Restore the tooth esthetically and functionally
Treatment Plan
We opted for a Class V composite restoration using light-cure composite material.
Procedure Steps
- Isolated the tooth using cotton rolls and suction
- Cleaned and dried the abraded surface
- Performed selective etching (only on enamel margins)
- Applied and cured bonding agent
- Placed composite in increments and light-cured
- Finished and polished the restoration for a smooth, natural look
- Carefully checked occlusion to avoid any high points
Post-Treatment Instructions
- Switch to a soft-bristle toothbrush
- Follow a gentle, circular brushing technique
- Use a desensitising toothpaste for added comfort
- Avoid brushing with excessive force
Outcome
- Restoration was well-adapted and aesthetically pleasing
- The patient experienced immediate relief from sensitivity
- Function and comfort were successfully restored
Follow-Up Plan
The patient was scheduled for a review after 2 weeks to check restoration stability and reinforce proper brushing habits. We also recommended regular dental checkups for long-term maintenance.