RESUMO
CONTEXT: Dentinal hypersensitivity (DH) is a commonly encountered problem. Several products are used in management of DH with varying results. Need is felt in dentistry for a material that chemically reacts, physically occludes and adheres intimately to dentinal tubules to reduce the possibility of its recurrence. One such material is calcium sodium phosphosilicate-Novamin. AIM: To evaluate an efficacy of a 5% calcium sodium phosphosilicate (Novamin SHY NM) containing dentifrice compared to placebo for the relief of DH. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Outpatients visiting Dept of Periodontics, Yenepoya Dental College with DH were deemed eligible for this case-control clinical trial after an informed consent. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 30 patients having at least 2 sensitive teeth with a VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) of >3 cm after air blast stimulation, qualified to participate in the study. Test (SHY NM toothpaste containing 5% calcium sodium phosphosilicate) and control (Pepsodent toothpaste without a desensitizing agent) groups, each containing 15 participants, were subjected to cold water and air blast stimulation for an assessment of DH at baseline, 6 th and 8 th week using VAS. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Unpaired t-test and repeated measures ANOVA. RESULTS: 5% Novamin containing dentifrice significantly reduced DH within 6 th and 8 th week of usage when compared to a placebo dentifrice. CONCLUSIONS: A Novamin containing dentifrice significantly reduced DH when compared to a placebo dentifrice.