CompletedObservational

A multi-site observational study looking at the risk factors associated with tooth sensitivity, receding gums and tooth wear

Tooth sensitivity causes a short, sharp discomfort when hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods touch your teeth. It happens when the outer protective layer wears away or gums recede, exposing tiny channels that lead to the tooth nerve. This European observational study, led in the UK by Bristol Dental School, aims to understand what causes tooth wear, sensitivity, and receding gums in everyday life. Researchers want to see how daily habits—such as using an electric toothbrush or drinking acidic drinks—play a role across different countries. Taking part takes just one visit, alongside your normal dental check-up. You will fill out a questionnaire about your habits, and a dentist will perform a standard mouth examination, a brief sensitivity check, and possibly take close-up photos of your teeth. There are no new treatments or medications involved, and your participation helps improve future dental advice and prevention.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

University of Bristol

Enrolment target

4,900

Start

16 Oct 2018

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2021

Dentine hypersensitivity Tooth wear Recession Clinical loss of attachment Oral hygiene habits Dietary habits

What is this study about?

Many adults experience tooth sensitivity, often described as a sudden, sharp twinge when eating ice cream, sipping a hot cup of tea, or brushing. This happens when the gums pull back or the protective enamel wears down, exposing tiny tubes in the underlying layer (dentine) that connect directly to the tooth nerve. Things like acidic foods, fizzy drinks, gum problems, and firm brushing can all contribute to this wear and tear.

This study builds on earlier research from across Europe that looked at how diet and oral hygiene affect teeth. Scientists found that habits like drinking sports drinks, eating lots of fruit, and using electric toothbrushes can sometimes be linked to tooth wear and sensitivity. Researchers now want to collect more detailed information from adults across seven European countries, including the UK, to see how lifestyle habits compare and interact.

By comparing results across different countries, dental experts hope to see a clearer picture of why some people suffer from sensitivity and receding gums while others do not. The study does not test any new drugs or dental fillings; it is purely observational. The findings will help dentists give clearer, more personalised advice in the future to keep teeth and gums healthy.

Key takeaways

This study explores how everyday habits and diet contribute to sensitive teeth, receding gums, and enamel wear.
It is an observational study with no experimental drugs, surgery, or dental fillings.
Participation takes place during a single dental visit and includes a questionnaire and a mouth check-up.
The study is led from Bristol Dental School and includes participants from seven European countries.
Taking part helps dental teams create better guidelines to protect teeth and gums in the future.

Who may be eligible?

You may be able to join this study if you are a generally healthy adult aged 18 or over and are visiting a participating dental clinic. To take part, you need to have at least 10 natural teeth of your own (not including implants, bridges, or crowns).

You will not be able to participate if you are currently pregnant or wearing dental braces. The study is also not suitable for people with bleeding conditions like haemophilia, those taking blood-thinning medicines, or those who need preventive antibiotics before dental check-ups. In addition, you cannot take part if you have taken painkillers or applied numbing gels to your mouth in the 24 hours before your visit.

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 aged 18 or older?
Do you have at least 10 natural teeth (excluding crowns, bridges, and implants)?
Are you free from fixed dental braces?
Can you confirm that you are not pregnant?
Are you free from bleeding disorders and not taking blood-thinning medications?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Taking part in the study involves just one single visit, which is usually arranged around a routine dental appointment. You will be asked to fill in a questionnaire about your daily oral hygiene, brushing habits, and diet. A qualified dentist will then carry out a gentle oral examination to check your gum lines and look for signs of enamel wear. They will also perform a quick test to measure tooth sensitivity, and they may ask for your permission to take close-up photographs of your teeth and gums. No medications are tested, no dental treatments are changed, and there are no follow-up visits once this single appointment is finished.

Potential risks and benefits

There is no direct medical benefit to taking part, but your answers and examination will help scientists improve oral health care and advice for others in the future. The risks of taking part are very low. The sensitivity check may cause a brief, sharp twinge in sensitive teeth, but this discomfort usually fades right away. The study will also add a short amount of extra time to your appointment. Taking part is completely voluntary, and you are free to change your mind or stop at any moment without it affecting your standard dental care.

Locations (1)

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

The Dental Clinical Trials Unit,
City only
Bristol, England

Common questions

Will the sensitivity test hurt?

The test may cause a brief twinge or mild chill if you have sensitive teeth, but the sensation is short-lived and should fade quickly.

Are there any medications or injections involved?

No. This is an observational study only. You will not receive any injections, experimental drugs, or new dental procedures.

How many visits do I need to make?

You will only need to attend one single appointment. It is typically combined with a routine visit to your dental clinic.

What will happen to the photos of my mouth?

Any photographs taken will only show your teeth and gums. They are securely labelled with an anonymous study number, meaning your name will not appear on them.

What if I change my mind after agreeing to join?

You can withdraw from the study at any time. Doing so will not affect your relationship with your dentist or the care you receive.

How to find out more

Nicola West

Official trial record

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