ABSTRACT
Aim: This study was conducted to estimate and correlate salivary thiocyanate (SCN) levels in periodontally healthy subjects, smokers, nonsmokers, and gutka‑chewers with chronic periodontitis. Methodology: The study population consisted of 40 systemically healthy subjects in the age group of 18–55 years that was further divided into four groups: Control, smokers, nonsmokers, and gutka‑chewers with chronic periodontitis. Gingival index (GI) (Loe and Silness‑1963), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss was assessed. Estimation of SCN was performed by ultraviolet spectrophotometer at 447 nm wavelength. Statistical analysis was performed using the one‑way ANOVAs Welch test and Pearson’s correlation test using SPSS version 17 software. Results: Results showed statistically significant increase in SCN levels in smokers as compared to gutka‑chewers with chronic periodontitis, control, and nonsmokers with chronic periodontitis subjects. Significantly higher PD and loss of attachment were seen in smokers group compared with other groups. A negative correlation observed between the GI and thiocyanate levels. Conclusion: The present study revealed a significant increase in SCN levels in smokers with periodontitis as compared to nonsmokers.
ABSTRACT
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 TM ) 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 TM 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.