Comparative evaluation of the efficacy of light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation, desensitizing agents, and their combined effect on dentinal hypersensitivity in cuspids and bicuspids – In Vivo Study

CONTEXT: Dentinal Hypersensitivity is the most common dental problem, in order to find a suitable treatment plan this study was conducted incorporating LASER and desensitizing agents on the patients complaining of dentinal hypersensitivity in cuspids and bicuspids. Most of the desensitizing agents provided incomplete relief hence the combination of LASER and Desensitizing agents proved to be successful. AIM: The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the efficacy of individual desensitizing agents and c (LASER) and also to know their potential in reducing dentinal hypersensitivity when both desensitizing agents and LASER are combined together and applied on cuspids and bicuspids. SETTING AND DESIGN: Sixty patients with sensitivity only in cuspids and bicuspids and not having caries, restoration, or undergoing any desensitizing therapy were selected. Patients were divided into 5 groups with 12 patients in each group. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Air blast stimulus was given for 10 s from 1 cm distance on the affected group. Verbal analog score was recorded. Treatment was carried on according to the groups mentioned: Group I – nanohydroxyapatite was applied for 15 min; Group II – biosilicate was applied for 15 min; Group III – LASER application was done twice for 60 s in noncontact mode; Group IV – Nanohydroxyapatite plus LASER application; and Group V – biosilicate plus LASER application. Desensitizing agent was applied with the applicator tip and was left for 15 min. It was then rinsed and again the stimulus was given, and the score was recorded. The same treatment procedure was repeated on 1(st), 7(th), and 14(th) day and the score was recorded and analyzed using ANOVA. RESULTS: The maximum reduction in sensitivity score was observed in patients where nanohydroxyapatite and LASER application was done. CONCLUSION: All the investigated treatments have promising desensitizing potential, but maximum was found in Group IV > Group V > Group III > Group I > Group II.