Tooth hypersensitivity after periodontal treatment

Sensitive teeth after periodontal treatment are a rather common finding. Therefore, it has been questioned whether all the cementum on the root surfaces ought to be removed during periodontal therapy, since the sensitivity is caused by exposure of the dentin. Usually, the hypersensitivity represents a minor problem and will decrease or disappear with time. However, the following case demonstrates that repeated instrumentation of periodontally involved teeth can lead to an extreme degree of hypersensitivity.