Clinical Study Investigating the Efficacy of a Desensitizing Dentifrice

Introduction: Dentin Hypersensitivity is a frequently reported distressing oral condition. The control of its symptomatology should, firstly, focus on preventive strategies and subsequently direct the therapy with the objective of interfering on its pain mechanism. Objective: To evaluate the short-term effectiveness of nano-hydroxyapatite based desensitizing dentifrice compared to fluoridated toothpaste on the reduction of dentin hypersensitivity. Methods: This was a double blind, randomized, parallel-group, 4-week study in 30 healthy adults with self-reported and clinically diagnosed dentin hypersensitivity, which were randomly distributed to one of the two experimental groups. Tooth sensitivity was assessed at baseline, after 2 and 4-weeks of treatment in response to evaporative and thermal stimuli measured by visual analogue scale. Results: The results obtained confirm that for both treatments there was a statistically significant reduction (p0,0005) on dentin hypersensitivity throughout the 4-week observation period. No statistical or clinical differences amongst the two therapies were demonstrated with exception for group A individuals which presented a plateau after week 2. Discussion: Both regiments achieved similar improvements, albeit only few participants reported the complete absence of pain. In almost all instances the changes detected within each group were towards the management and/or pain alleviation. Conclusions: The performance of the two dentifrices was similar after the 4-week treatment time demonstrating identical benefits concerning tooth sensitivity on short-term basis. Clinical Implications: Despite the positive results, more studies are required to help to determine the long-term effect. Moreover, a more effective and durable desensitizing product for clinical use is yet to be found. Keywords: Dentin hypersensitivity, dentine occlusion, treatment dentin hypersensitivity, nano-hydroxyapatite