Post-operative sensitivity may occur following restorative procedures including periodontal therapy affecting both the hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity and can have a major effect on the quality of life (QoL) of the individual. Ideally, the clinician needs to prevent or minimise these effects to reduce any unnecessary discomfort for the patient and this may be accomplished through preventive strategies, the provision of the required information about the procedures both pre- and post-treatment as well as reassuring the patient in the event of any subsequent discomfort. Furthermore, it is important for the clinician to be able to correctly diagnose the exact cause of the patient’s discomfort and have the confidence to successfully manage the problem. The aim of this chapter is to provide an overview on the management and treatment of post-operative sensitivity following both non-surgical and surgical periodontal procedures and will be primarily concerned about the discomfort associated with dentine hypersensitivity/root sensitivity following these procedures.
Part of the book: Periodontology and Dental Implantology