Evaluating the efficacy of desensitizing dentifrices on dentinal hypersensitivity management: A scanning electron microscopic analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) adversely affects quality of life by impairing the ability to eat and drink certain foods, therefore, should be addressed promptly with a contingency plan that includes initial treatment with a noninvasive prophylactic home care approach, followed by in-office treatment if desired result is not achieved. Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of four different pastes containing 5% NovaMin (Sensodyne Repair and Protect ® ), Propolis (Phytoshield Propolis ® ), 5% potassium nitrate (Sensodyne ® ), and 8% arginine (Colgate Sensitive Pro Relief ® ) based toothpastes in the treatment of DH. Materials and Methods: One hundred dentin slices were cut from the crown section of molars. Etching with 37% orthophosphoric acid was done to open the tubules. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) study was done to ensure that the tubules are opened. The dentin specimens were divided into four groups: Group 1 –5% NovaMin, Group 2 – Propolis, Group 3 – 5% potassium nitrate, and Group 4 – 8% arginine. Samples were brushed for 2 min twice daily with a soft toothbrush for 15 days and were stored in distilled water. The samples were rinsed under running water to remove the toothpaste. The SEM was performed to check the obliteration of tubules. Results: 5% NovaMin group showed more completely occluded dentinal tubules when compared to other groups. The differences among all the groups were statistically significant ( P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: In the present study, all materials, NovaMin, Propolis, potassium nitrate, and arginine, were effective in occluding dentinal tubules but NovaMin appeared most proficient in occluding tubules, followed by arginine, potassium nitrate, and Propolis. Topical NovaMin is an upcoming agent demonstrating desensitization and remineralization properties.

Evaluation and comparison of the effects of a new paste containing 8% L-Arginine and CaCO3 plus KNO3 on dentinal tubules occlusion and dental sensitivity: a randomized, triple blinded clinical trial study

“…Their electron microscope analysis showed more closed tubules in the arginine group than in the control. Midha et al [ 35 ] found positive effects for all anti-sensitive agents, with NovaMin, followed by arginine and potassium nitrate, most effective in closing dentine tubules. In contrast to Midha et al, Rajguru et al [ 36 ] reported arginine paste as more efficient in closing tubules but found NovaMin to resist acid challenges better.…”

“…In previous literature, physical blockage of tubules has proven more effective than reducing nerve excitability [ 35 , 56 , 62 ]. Studies show mixed results for desensitizers with potassium ions, with some expressing doubt [ 63 ] and others confirming their effectiveness [ 49 , 64 – 69 ].…”

Quantity and diameter of dentinal tubules of human teeth and teeth of experimental animals according to scanning electron microscopy data

“…Dentin hypersensitivity adversely affects quality of life by impairing the ability to eat and drink certain foods, therefore, should be addressed promptly with a contingency plan that includes initial treatment with a noninvasive prophylactic home care approach, followed by in-office treatment if desired result is not achieved. For today, many studies have been conducted to assess the decrease in dentin permeability and the presence of nanoleakage in the resin-dentin complex when using universal adhesives (Midha et al, 2021). It was found that no adhesive system completely reduced dentin permeability.…”