Can Desensitizing Toothpastes Also Have an Effect on Gingival Inflammation? A Double-Blind, Three-Treatment Crossover Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background: Many desensitizing toothpastes exist commercially; however, few clinical trials have investigated their anti-inflammatory effects. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect and patient appreciation of two toothpastes containing desensitizing agents: (1) a zinc-carbonate-hydroxyapatite nanoparticle (CHA) and (2) a calcium sodium phosphosilicate bioactive glass (CSPS). Methods: CHA and CSPS were compared with an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial herbal based toothpaste (HB). The aims were accomplished by comparing the following outcomes: (1) the reduction in plaque and bleeding score (Full Mouth Plaque Score (FMPS) and Full Mouth Bleeding Score (FMBS), respectively); (2) the antibacterial activity (AbA) of the toothpaste by saliva samples; (3) the patient appreciation score (Visual Analogue Scale; VAS). Clinical parameters were assessed at baseline and 14 days post-treatment. Results: The final sample consisted of 25 subjects, aged between 20 and 58 years. Although no differences in FMPS were reported (p > 0.05), both desensitizing toothpastes showed an improvement in FMBS. CSPS and HB recorded more AbA compared to CHA (p < 0.05). Moreover, HB resulted in a higher VAS score than both desensitizing toothpastes (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, only CSPS displayed a similar anti-inflammatory effect compared to HB. Despite the low VAS score, CSPS could be considered as a valid and effective toothpaste in subjects with both dentin hypersensitivity and inflamed gums, highlighting its utility in clinical practice.

Preparation and In Vitro Characterization of Gels Based on Bromelain, Whey and Quince Extract

“…Organic acids, such as malic acid, can promote the degradation of bacterial plaque and therefore help to remove colored compounds from them [ 26 ]. Herbal based products for dental hygiene have been also proved to have anti-inflammatory properties [ 27 ].…”

A randomized clinical trial for comparing the efficacy of desensitizing toothpastes on the relief of dentin hypersensitivity

“…HA-based toothpastes induced better enamel remineralization and reduction of DH in white spot lesions compared to conventional fluoride toothpaste in a clinical trial 34 . Moreover, some biogenic material-containing desensitizing toothpastes exhibited anti-inflammatory effect on gingiva 35 .…”

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