Treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity using low-level laser therapy and 5% potassium nitrate: A randomized, controlled, three arm parallel clinical study

AIM: The present randomized study was aimed to compare the efficacy 5% potassium nitrate (KNO(3)) toothpaste, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and LLLT with 5% KNO(3) toothpaste in the treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity (DH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Total of 45 patients complaining of DH with visual analog scale (VAS) score being ≥2 were recruited and were divided into three groups. Group A was treated with 5% KNO(3) toothpaste, Group B using LLLT along with the application of 5% KNO(3) toothpaste, and Group C using LLLT alone. VAS scores were recorded at the baseline, 1(st), 2(nd), and 3(rd) weeks by the examiner who is blinded toward the treatment. The sensitivity response was evaluated using air spray and tactile sensation (explorer). RESULTS: A greater reduction of DH was recorded at the end of 3 weeks in Group C and Group B when compared to Group A. Better results were noted in Group C at the end of the 1(st) week when compared to Group B. According to this study, there was no additional benefit of using toothpaste along with LLLT. CONCLUSION: A greater reduction of DH was recorded at the end of 3 weeks in Group C and Group B when compared to Group A. Better results were noted in Group C at the end of the 1(st) week when compared to Group B. According to this study, there was no additional benefit of using toothpaste along with LLLT.