Understanding brain responses in patients with sensitive teeth
Identification and Quantification of Neurological Responses in Patients with Dentine Hypersensitivity
This study is testing how the brains of people with sensitive teeth react to things like cold air or temperature changes to better understand their pain.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Sheffield) |
| Trial ID | NCT06633627 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to investigate the neurological responses in patients suffering from dentine hypersensitivity using electroencephalography (EEG). By measuring brain activity in response to stimuli such as cold temperatures and air bursts applied to sensitive teeth, the study seeks to identify how these responses differ in individuals with dentine sensitivity. The non-invasive EEG procedure involves placing electrodes on the scalp to record brain signals during the stimulation. This research could provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of pain associated with dentine hypersensitivity.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with self-reported dentine sensitivity confirmed by a response to air puff.
Not a fit: Patients with untreated dental caries, periodontal issues, or those using orthodontic appliances may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of dentine hypersensitivity, enhancing patient quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on pain mechanisms in dentistry, this specific approach using EEG for dentine hypersensitivity is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Adults 18 years and older; 2. Understands and is willing, able and likely to comply with all study procedures and restrictions; 3. Accepts the form of the study and signs a declaration of informed consent; 4. In good health (in the opinion of the clinical dental professional); 5. A minimum of 10 teeth not including teeth with crowns or bridges from upper right 4 to upper left 4 and lower right 4 to lower left 4; For patients with dentine sensitivity only (experimental group): self-reported sensitivity in at least 1 tooth; confirmed by response to air puff. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Adults currently using maxillary or mandibular orthodontic appliances; 2. Obvious signs of untreated caries, which in the opinion of the clinical dental professional, will affect the scientific validity of the study; 3. Periodontal pocket depth ≥4mm in the anterior upper or lower sextants; 4. Evidence of periodontitis. 5. Have a history of seizures; 6. Taking medications that affect brain responses; 7. Experience damaged skin on the scalp due to cuts, psoriasis, eczema, or other conditions; 8. Any participant who in the investigator's judgment will not comply with the study protocol; 9. Any participant who has difficulties in adequate understanding of English.
Where this trial is running
Sheffield
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust — Sheffield, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Fiona Boissonade, BDS, PhD — University of Sheffield
- Study coordinator: Fiona Boissonade, BDS, PhD
- Email: f.boissonade@sheffield.ac.uk
- Phone: +441142159314
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.