Abstract:

Objective This review aims to identify the dimensional structure of the shortened dentine hypersensitivity experience questionnaire (DHEQ-15) using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Methods The Chinese language version of DHEQ-15 was applied to 210 patients with dentine hypersensitivity aged 18-70 years old. The three-dimensional construct was confirmed by CFA.Results All the questionnaires were fully completed. The item “Because of the sensations, I take longer to finish a meal than others” was the most frequently reported by the parents. The modified three-factor model is suitable for the data. The chi-square fit statistics/degree of freedom was 2.213, the goodness-of-fit index was 0.905, the adjusted goodness-of-fit index was 0.872, the normed fit index was 0.845, the incremental fit index was 0.962, the Tucker-Lewis index was 0.969, the comparative fit index was 0.977, and the root mean square error of approximation was 0.068. Conclusion Our findings generally support the three-dimensional construct of the DHEQ-15. Thus, DHEQ-15 can be used as a valid instrument in patients with dentine hypersensitivity in China.

Key words: dentine hypersensitivity experience questionnaire, dimensional structure, confirmatory factor analysis