Phototherapy Using Er,Cr:YSGG Laser as a Definitive Treatment for Dentin Hypersensitivity: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE: To assess the efficacy of Er,Cr:YSGG lasers in reducing dentine hypersensitivity (DH). METHODS: Electronic literature were searched through various databases (MEDLINE, SCOPUS, ProQuest, LILACS and EBSCO) up to March 2022 for articles addressing the following focused question: “In patients with dentine hypersensitivity, does an Er,Cr:YSGG laser provide a better outcome in terms of pain reduction than other dentine desensitizer agents?”. The literature was searched using combinations of the following medical subject heading (MeSH) terms and keywords: (laser OR phototherapy OR Er,Cr:YSGG laser) AND (dentine hypersensitivity OR dentine sensitivity OR dental sensitivity). RESULTS: A total of 486 studies were found, of which 7 randomized controlled trials were included in the review. The Er,Cr:YSGG laser wavelengths, power density and duration of irradiation used in the studies were 2780 nanometers, 0.25–0.5 watts and 20–60 seconds, respectively. The follow-up assessments were conducted ranging from immediately to 3 months after treatment. All studies showed that the Er,Cr:YSGG laser was effective in alleviating DH. CONCLUSION: This systematic review suggests that the application of an Er,Cr:YSSG laser is effective in alleviating DH and may have limited adverse effects if adequate parameters are followed.