: Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) is an uncomfortable most often temporary sustainable pain problem while gingival recession (GR) can result in compromised aesthetics and DH. Traumatic tooth brushing technique and some dietary habits contribute to GR and DH. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of tooth brushing and diet on dentine hypersensitivity severity in Nigerians. METHOD: Consecutive patients from eight randomly selected states in Nigeria were evaluated after obtaining institutional ethical approval. GR and DH were measured with a William periodontal probe and Schiff index respectively. Self-administered questionnaire was used to record the participants’ tooth brushing and dietary habits. Descriptive Spearman correlation coefficients and p values were used to analyze the data. RESULTS: Elicited DH related with brushing frequency, type of brush movement, brushing after breakfast, fresh fruits and fruit/ vegetable juice were statistically significant (p<0.05) Type of toothbrush used and the hand used in brushing related to GR and DH related to type of tooth brush, brushing before breakfast, after lunch and after dinner were not statistically significant (p>0.05). CONCLUSION: Type of brush movement, brushing after breakfast, fresh fruits and fruit/vegetable drinks are significantly related to dentine hypersensitivity severity in Nigerians.

Keywords: Dentinal hypersensitivity, Toothbrushing, Diet