RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Neurological Responses in Patients with Dentine Hypersensitivity

This study aims to understand how the brain processes pain from sensitive teeth, a common condition where exposed tooth layers cause discomfort, often from hot or cold. Researchers use a non-invasive brain activity recording called an electroencephalogram (EEG). This involves wearing a cap with small sensors to pick up brain signals while teeth are gently stimulated with cold air. By comparing brain responses in people with and without tooth sensitivity, the study hopes to find an objective way to measure sensitivity. This information could lead to better understanding of dental pain and help develop more effective treatments and improve the quality of life for those affected.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

Start

11 Oct 2024

Estimated completion

30 Sep 2025

Dentine Hypersensitivity

What is this study about?

This study is all about understanding sensitive teeth, a very common issue where teeth feel a 'short, sharp pain' when exposed to things like hot, cold, or even a breath of air. This happens because the soft, sensitive layer under the tooth's enamel (called dentine) becomes exposed. Many people experience this, and it can really affect their daily lives.

The main goal of this research is to see how the brain reacts when a tooth feels sensitive. To do this, researchers use a special, completely harmless and painless technique called an EEG (electroencephalogram). An EEG records your brain's electrical activity using a cap with small sensors placed on your head. During the study, these sensors will pick up your brain signals while your teeth are gently stimulated with things like cold air. By comparing these brain signals from people with and without sensitive teeth, the researchers hope to identify specific brain responses related to tooth sensitivity.

The information gathered from these brain scans could be very important. It could help doctors and dentists find a more objective way to measure how sensitive a tooth really is, rather than just relying on what a patient says. This deeper understanding of how the brain processes dental pain could pave the way for developing better treatments for sensitive teeth and potentially other types of dental pain in the future, ultimately improving patients' quality of life.

Key takeaways

Study aims to understand brain responses to sensitive teeth.
Uses a safe, painless brain scan called an EEG.
Compares brain signals from people with and without sensitive teeth.
Hopes to find objective ways to measure tooth sensitivity.
Could lead to better treatments for dental pain in the future.
No medication is involved in this study.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be an adult aged 18 or over and be able to understand and follow the study instructions. You should also be in generally good dental health as judged by the study dentist, meaning no major untreated cavities or serious gum disease that could affect the results.

If you have sensitive teeth and want to participate in the 'sensitive teeth group', you'll need to report sensitivity in at least one tooth, which will then be confirmed by a gentle puff of air by the study team. Both men and women can take part.

There are a few reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you wear braces, have a history of seizures, or are taking medications that could affect your brain's responses. Also, if you have any cuts or skin conditions on your scalp, or find it difficult to understand English, you wouldn't be able to participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you generally have good dental health?
If you have sensitive teeth, is it in at least one tooth?
Do you NOT wear braces?
Do you NOT have a history of seizures?
Are you NOT taking medications that affect brain responses?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you take part in this study, you will have your brain activity recorded using an EEG. This involves wearing a cap with small sensors on your head. This process is non-invasive and painless. During the recording, your teeth will be stimulated with cold temperatures and short puffs of air. The researchers will then compare your brain signals with those from other participants. The exact number of visits or total duration isn't specified, but EEG assessments are typically a single session. You won't be given any medication as part of this study.

Potential risks and benefits

A potential benefit of taking part is contributing to a better understanding of sensitive teeth, which could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for many people in the future. There are very few risks associated with an EEG; it's a non-invasive and painless procedure. Although your teeth will be stimulated, this will be done gently. You are always free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it will not affect your usual dental care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
Sheffield, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is an EEG?

An EEG (electroencephalogram) is a safe and painless test that records your brain's electrical activity. It involves wearing a cap with small sensors on your scalp, which pick up brain signals.

Will the study make my sensitive teeth worse?

The study involves gentle stimulation of your teeth with cold air or temperatures. While you might feel your usual sensitivity during these brief moments, the procedure is designed to be safe and should not worsen your condition long-term.

Is the EEG procedure uncomfortable?

No, the EEG is a non-invasive and painless procedure. You will wear a cap with small sensors, but it's generally very comfortable.

How long will my participation take?

The study description doesn't specify the exact duration, but EEG recordings are typically completed within a single session.

Will I get paid for participating?

The study information provided does not mention any payment for participation.

How to find out more

Fiona Boissonade, BDS, PhD

f.boissonade@sheffield.ac.uk +441142159314 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.