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

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.