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Aim This study developed the Schiff Index into a Cumulative Hypersensitivity Index ( CHI) to measure dentine hypersensitivity ( DH) severity per subject. It validates this score by investigating if it compares to one comprising a percentage score from all tooth surfaces and as a highest score per subject. Materials and methods Overall, 350 subjects were recruited from hospital and general practice in south-east England. Buccal, occlusal and oral Schiff Index scores were collected and percentages calculated based on scores 1, 1 and above, 2 and above and 3. CHI scores and highest Schiff Index scores were also recorded per subject. Spearman correlation coefficients ( p-values) assessed the relationship between CHI scores, Schiff Index percentages and Schiff Index highest per subject. Results In subjects with a Schiff Index score of 1 or more on at least one tooth surface (indicating DH was present), correlation of the CHI score to the Schiff Index percentage score was 0.982 ( p < 0.001). Correlation of the sextant score to the highest Schiff Index score per subject was 0.963, ( p < 0.001). DH was more likely on tooth surfaces with gingival recession ( p < 0.001) and without bleeding on probing ( p < 0.01). Conclusions This study has validated a novel CHI score to indicate DH severity per subject and may help guide clinical management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]