What is Tooth Flexion

In the literature, Dentinal Hypersensitivity (DH) is considered to arise from exposed dentin and patent dentinal tubules. However, clinical observation of recurrent DH sensitivity indicates it can occur in the presence or absence of exposed dentin. Quantified occlusal contact force and timing parameters have been ignored in studies assessing hypersensitive teeth. This chapter introduces a novel occlusal concept: Frictional Dental Hypersensitivity (FDH). Clinical evidence from combining computerized occlusal analysis and electromyography is presented linking opposing posterior tooth friction and muscular hyperactivity to Dentin Hypersensitivity. This chapter proffers how occlusion, muscular TMD symptoms, and frictional Dentin Hypersensitivity are all related. Lastly, a Pilot Study is presented that used a Visual Numerical Analog scale to quantify Dentin Hypersensitivity resolution observed in symptomatic patients who underwent the Immediate Complete Anterior Guidance Development (ICAGD) coronoplasty. This computer-guided occlusal adjustment eliminated pretreatment FDH symptomatology, further supporting that Dentinal Hypersensitivity has an occlusally-based, frictional etiology.