Perception of Patients with Cardiovascular Disease toward Seeking Dental Treatment for Hypersensitivity: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) often experience dentin hypersensitivity, which significantly affects their quality of life. However, concerns regarding safety, limited awareness, and the lack of integration between dental and cardiac care may hinder timely treatment. Understanding their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) toward managing hypersensitivity is crucial for improving oral and systemic health outcomes of patients. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the KAPs of patients with CVD regarding dental treatment for dentinal hypersensitivity and to identify factors influencing their care-seeking behavior. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study utilizing a questionnaire was conducted among 230 patients aged 40–70 years who were diagnosed with CVD. A prevalidated KAP questionnaire was used to assess awareness, perceptions, and behaviors related to dentinal hypersensitivity. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. Results: Most participants had moderate knowledge (53.5%) and attitude (49.6%) scores, while only 14.3% demonstrated good practice scores. Higher education level, urban residence, and better knowledge and attitudes were significantly associated with improved practice behavior. Logistic regression revealed that participants with higher education (odds ratio [OR] =2.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.38–5.01), urban residence (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.01–3.77), good knowledge (OR = 3.12, 95% CI = 1.59–6.11), and positive attitude (OR = 2.58, 95% CI = 1.22–5.45) were significantly more likely to seek dental treatment for hypersensitivity. Conclusion: Despite moderate awareness, a substantial gap exists between knowledge and practice among patients with CVD and dentinal hypersensitivity. Educational interventions, interdisciplinary referrals, and oral health integration into cardiac care protocols are recommended to improve outcomes in this vulnerable population.