[Effect of Neodymium-Doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet Laser Combined With Desensitizing Toothpaste on Dentinal Tubule Occlusion Against Acid Challenge].

Objective To assess the effects of different application sequences of neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet(Nd∶YAG)laser and the desensitizing toothpaste containing stannous fluoride on dentinal tubule occlusion.Methods Twelve intact third molars freshly extracted from human were selected and prepared into dentin slices with a thickness of 0.8 mm.Each dentin slice was subdivided into four small slices,three of which were etched with 6% citric acid and randomly assigned to the following three groups(n=12):(1)control group:no treatment;(2)Nd∶YAG+toothbrushing(TB)group:first irradiated with Nd∶YAG laser and then brushed with desensitizing toothpaste;(3)TB+Nd∶YAG group:first brushed with desensitizing toothpaste and then irradiated with Nd∶YAG laser.The Nd∶YAG laser irradiation were carried out at 1 W,15 pulses/s,and the pulse width of 150 µs for 10 s(for a total of 6 cycles).After the above treatment,the 12 dentin slices from the Nd∶YAG+TB and TB+Nd∶YAG groups were randomly assigned to four subgroups(n=3)and subjected to acid etching in the Coca-Cola solution for 0,5,10,and 15 min.A scanning electron microscope was used to observe and photograph the dentin slices in each group,and eight single-blinded examiners scored the slices according to uniform criteria.The analysis of variance was carried out to compared the scores between groups.Results Before acid etching,the dentin tubule occlusion scores of the Nd∶YAG+TB and TB+Nd∶YAG groups were(4.83±0.09) scores and(3.85±0.66) scores,respectively,which had no significant difference between each other(P=0.0590)and were higher than that[(0.10±0.07)scores]of the control group(both P<0.0001).The dentin tubule occlusion scores of the Nd∶YAG+TB group after acid etching for 5,10,and 15 min were(4.33±0.60)scores,(4.27±0.24)scores,and(3.63±0.07)scores,respectively,which were not significantly different from those[(4.04±0.10)scores,(3.76±0.59)scores,and(3.17±0.29)scores,respectively]of the TB+Nd∶YAG group(all P>0.05).In the Nd∶YAG+TB subgroup,the dentin tubule occlusion score after acid etching for 15 min was significantly lower than that before acid etching(P=0.0011).In the TB+Nd∶YAG group,there was no statistically significant difference in the score between before and after acid etching(P>0.05).Conclusions Nd∶YAG laser irradiation with appropriate parameters combined with the use of desensitizing toothpaste could produce an excellent occluding effect on dentinal tubules regardless of the sequence.However,brushing with desensitizing toothpaste followed by Nd∶YAG laser irradiation produced more consistent dentin sealing after acid etching.

A novel treatment based on powder jet deposition technique for dentin hypersensitivity: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of dentin hypersensitivity (DH) treatment using a newly developed device based on a powder jet deposition (PJD) technique that creates a hydroxyapatite (HAP) layer on the dentin surface, thereby alleviating the hypersensitivity. The effect of the PJD treatment was compared with that of conventional treatment using Teethmate Desensitizer (TMD; calcium-phosphate containing material with TTCP (Ca4(PO4)2O) and DCPA (CaHPO4)), which has been used clinically in Japan with well-confirmed effectiveness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A randomized controlled trial was conducted including 35 patients who had symptoms of DH in two or more quadrants. Two test teeth were selected per patient (70 teeth in total) and randomly assigned to PJD or TMD treatment. The efficacy was evaluated using the improvement rate for air and scratch pain according to the scores obtained via visual analog scale 12 weeks after treatment. The safety assessment was performed focusing on gingival index (GI) and spontaneous pain. The t-test was used to analyze the non-inferiority of PJD treatment compared to TMD treatment. RESULTS: The improvement rate of air pain was 69.0% for PJD and 69.7% for TMD. The improvement rate of scratch pain was 80.8% for PJD and 81.7% for TMD. Non-inferiority with a margin of 10% was not observed for both air and scratch pain. No change was observed in GI from baseline and the improvement rate of spontaneous pain for PJD was higher than that for TMD. CONCLUSION: Non-inferiority of PJD to TMD treatment was not observed in this study; however, it was not statistically demonstrated, and the results were thus interpreted as inconclusive. PJD did improve the DH symptoms, as did TMD. PJD's therapeutic effect was most likely attributable to the deposition of a HAP layer on the tooth surface, which would alleviate hypersensitivity for at least 12 weeks without causing severe adverse events. TRIAL REGISTRATION: UMIN-CTR. ID: UMIN000025022. date: 02/12/2016.

Evaluation of a novel restorative protocol to treat non-carious cervical lesion associated with gingival recession: a 2-year follow-up randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare 2 different resin composites and 2 adhesive systems used in a new restorative protocol (partial restoration) to treat non-carious cervical lesions associated with gingival recession type 1 (RT1). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eighty combined defects (CDs) were treated with a partial restoration and periodontal plastic surgery for root coverage. The CDs were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: NP + TE (n = 20), nanofilled composite and 2-step total-etch adhesive system; NP + UA (n = 20), nanofilled composite and universal adhesive system; MH + TE (n = 20), microhybrid composite and 2-step total-etch adhesive; MH + UA (n = 20), microhybrid composite and universal adhesive. Restorations were assessed using the United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria at 1 week (baseline) and 6, 12, and 24 months. Survival rate, periodontal parameters, dentin hypersensitivity (DH), and aesthetics were also evaluated. RESULTS: After 24 months, only the MH + TE group did not lose any restoration, with no significant differences between groups. For surface roughness parameter, MH presented 83.3% of the restorations scoring Bravo, whereas NP presented 48.5% of the restorations scoring Bravo. All groups presented restorations with marginal discoloration. All periodontal parameters behaved similarly, regardless of the restorative material. All groups presented significant reductions of dentin hypersensitivity and improved aesthetic perceptions (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Both resin composites and adhesives tested can be combined for partial restorations to treat CDs. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This new restorative-surgical protocol to treat CDs presents satisfactory outcomes. The partial restorations can be successfully executed with both combinations of adhesives and resin composites evaluated in this investigation. TRN : ClinicalTrial.gov: NCT03215615; registration date July 12, 2017.

[An integrated approach to reducing hyperesthesia of teeth in patients with underlying somatic pathology]. / Kompleksnyi podkhod v reabilitatsii patsientov s giperesteziei tverdykh tkanei zubov na fone somaticheskikh zabolevanii.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY: Was to analyze the effectiveness of therapeutic and preventive measures aimed at reducing hyperesthesia of hard dental tissues in patients with background somatic diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study involved 113 patients with increased tooth sensitivity and treated in the gastroenterological and endocrinological departments of the S.M. Kirov City Clinical Hospital No.3¼ in Astrakhan in the period from 2018 to 2021 at the age of 26-43 years. The main group included 52 patients with confirmed diagnoses of gastric and duodenal ulcer, pancreatitis and type II diabetes mellitus who were treated for dental hyperesthesia with an integrated approach. The control group included 61 patients with periodontal disease without background somatic pathologies in whom hyperesthesia was treated by remineralizing therapy. The effectiveness of the treatment was determined in dynamics on the 10th and 40th days of treatment using OHI-S, PMA indices, dental hypersensitivity prevalence (DHP), dental hypersensitivity intensity (DHI), Dental Sensitivity Index (DSI), Efficacy of Dental Sensitivity Index (EDSI). In addition, the pH of saliva, the activity of lysozyme and S-IgA, and the levels of cytokines IL-1ß, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-8 were determined. RESULTS: The average value of OHI-S in the main group on the 10th day of treatment decreased from 2.25±0.12 (poor level of hygiene) to 1.47±0.09 (satisfactory level). The PMA index in the main group also tended to decrease from 32.1±1.44% (moderate degree of gingivitis) to 20.5±2.08% (mild degree) on the 10th day of treatment. The average values of DPH, DPI, EDSI and DSI in the main group had a noticeable decrease already on the 10th day from the start of treatment (from 12.3±1.66% to 2.1±1.22%; from 2.5±0.48 to 1.2±0.16; from 48.3±1.14% to 40.8±1.71%; from 42.1±2.07% to 20.8±1, 65% respectively). In the main group on the 10th and 40th day of treatment the pH values of non-stimulated and stimulated saliva stabilized (from 4.61±0.12 to 6.94±0.07 and from 5.47±0.21 to 7.42±0.24, respectively), the activity of lysozyme increased (from 45.97±1.46% to 55.19±0.96%) alongside with secretory IgA (from 0.17±0.02 to 0.33±0.21 mg/ml). Also, indicators of cytokines IL-1ß, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8 tended to improve. The analysis of the control group revealed persistent mean values that did not yield to significant changes either in the course of treatment. CONCLUSION: Thus, in patients of the main group, the results obtained indicate an improvement in the dental status and activation of cytokine regulation, providing a combination of active components of the mineral complex. In controls the method of remineralizing therapy for tooth hyperesthesia alleviated dental hypersensitivity, but without significant improvement of the laboratory results.

Use of Ionized Monocalcium phosphate and enameline derivatives to reduce dentin hypersensitivity after periondontal therapy / Uso de Fostato Monocálcio y derivados en Enamelina para reducir la hipersensibilidad dentaria después de terapia periodontal

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of using an ionized monocalcium phosphate and enamelin derivatives (IMP+ED) based mouthwash for the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity (DH) after scaling and root planing (SRP). 47 patients who reported DH after SRP treatment were included in this prospective cohort study. The Schiff Cold Air Sensitivity Scale (SCASS) was applied to classify their degree of pain in mild, moderate or intense at two times: after SRP (T0), and after one month of using a IMP+ED-based mouthwash (T1). The McNemar-Bowker test was used to compare the correlated proportions between both times (p<0.05). After the SRP therapy (T0), all the sample members reported pain distributed in the following manner: 12.8% were mild, 27.6% moderate, and 59.6% intense. At one month since treatment and with the use of the IMP+ED-based mouthwash (T1), the distribution of pain levels changed to 83% mild, 12.8% moderate, and 4.3% intense, this change was statistically significant (p<0.001). IMP+ED-based mouthwash produces a positive effect in reducing painful responses caused by exposure of the dentin tubules to the oral environment after SRP therapy.

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la efectividad de un enjuague bucal a base de fosfato monocálcico ionizado y derivados de enamelina (FCI+DE) para el tratamiento de hipersensibilidad dentinaria (HD) posterior al tratamiento de raspado y alisado radicular (RAR). 47 pacientes que reportaron tener HD posterior al tratamiento de RAR fueron incluidos en este estudio prospectivo de cohorte. Con el fin de clasificar la HD de los pacientes en leve, moderada o intensa se utilizó la Escala de Sensiblidad al Aire Frío de Schiff (ESAFS). Los pacientes fueron evaluados después del tratamiento de RAR (T0) y posterior al uso de un enjuague bucal basado en FCI+DE (T1). Para comparar las proporciones correlacionadas se utilizó la prueba de McNemar-Bowker (p<0.05). La distribución del dolor de los pacientes posterior al tratamiento de RAR (T0) fue la siguiente: 12.8% fueron leves, 27.6% moderado, and 59.6% intenso. Un mes después del uso del enjuague buccal basado en FCI+DE (T1) la distribución en los niveles de dolor cambio a 83% leve, 12.8% moderado, and 4.3% intenso, este cambio fue estadísticamente significativo (p<0.001). El uso del enjuague bucal basado en FCI+DE produce una reducción significativa a la respuesta de dolor causada por la exposición de la dentina al ambiente oral como consecuencia del tratamiento de RAR.

Avaliação in silico da afinidade de drogas ao receptor TRPA1 como preditor para o manejo farmacológico da sensibilidade provocada pelo clareamento dentário / In silico assessment of drug affinity to the TRPA1 receptor as a predictor for the pharmacological management of sensitivity caused by tooth whitening

Introdução: Reduzir a sensibilidade do clareamento dental em consultório representa um desafio para os profissionais. Pesquisadores associaram o bloqueio do receptor de dor TRPA1 com a redução da sensibilidade ao clareamento. No entanto, a afinidade química dos analgésicos/anti-inflamatórios para o TRPA1 ainda precisa ser averiguada. Objetivo: Realizar uma triagem virtual de múltiplos medicamentos (analgésicos e antiinflamatórios) para verificar a afinidade química pelo receptor TRPA1. Metodologia: A estrutura cristalina das proteínas do receptor TRPA1 foi recuperada do Protein Data Bank. Os códigos SMILES dos ligantes foram extraídos do PubChem. A energia de ligação do complexo foi obtida em ∆G - kcal/mol pelo AutoDock Vina© e replicada nos servidores SwissDock©, Dockthor© e CbDock©. LigPlus© confirmou os sítios de ligação. Resultados: Apesar dos antagonistas dos receptores analisados apresentarem alta afinidade, codeína e dexametasona apresentaram regularidade em todos os servidores, mesmo apresentando valores de energia de ligação de -7,9 kcal/mol para codeína e -8,1 kcal/mol para dexametasona. Conclusão: A codeína e a dexametasona podem ser drogas potenciais para controlar a sensibilidade ao clareamento dental caso atinjam o receptor TRPA1 da polpa dentária (AU).

Introduction: Reducing in-office tooth bleaching sensitivity represents a challenge for professionals. Researchers have associated the block of the pain receptor TRPA1 with reducing bleaching sensitivity. However, the chemical affinity of analgesic/antiinflammatory drugs to the TRPA1 needs to be verified. Objective: To perform a virtual screening of multiple drugs (analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs) to verify chemical affinity for the TRPA1 receptor. Methodology: The crystal structure of the TRPA1 receptor proteins was retrieved from the Protein Data Bank. The SMILES codes of the ligands were extracted from PubChem. The binding energy of the complex was obtained in ∆G - kcal/mol by AutoDock Vina© and replicated in the webservers SwissDock©, Dockthor©, and CbDock©. LigPlus© confirmed the binding sites. Results: Although the receptor antagonists analyzed showed high affinity, codeine and dexamethasone showed regularity among all servers, even showing binding energy values of -7.9 kcal/mol for codeine and -8.1 kcal/mol for dexamethasone. Conclusion: Codeine and dexamethasone may be potential drugs to manage tooth bleaching sensitivity if they reach the dental pulp TRPA1 receptor (AU).

Effect of bioactive glasses containing strontium and potassium on dentin permeability.

Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is characterized by pain caused by an external stimulus on exposed dentin. Different therapeutic approaches have been proposed to mitigate this problem; however, none of them provide permanent pain relief. In this study, we synthesized and characterized experimental bioactive glasses containing 3.07 mol% SrO or 3.36 mol% K2 O (both equivalent to 5 wt% in the glass), and evaluated their effect on dentin permeability to verify their potential to treat DH. The experimental materials were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction to confirm the respective structures and chemical compositions. The reduction in the hydraulic conductance of dentin was evaluated at the three stages: minimum permeability; maximum permeability (24% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid [EDTA] treatment); and final dentin permeability after treatment with the bioactive glasses. They all promoted a reduction in dentin permeability, with a significant difference for each sample and posttreatment group. Also, a significant reduction in dentin permeability was observed even after a simulated toothbrushing test, demonstrating effective action of these materials against DH. Besides, incorporating 3.07 mol% SrO was a positive factor. Therefore, strontium's desensitizing and re-mineralizing properties can be further exploited in bioactive glasses to promote a synergistic effect to treat DH.

[Home treatment of dental hyperesthesia symptoms]. / Simptomaticheskoe lechenie giperestezii zubov v domashnikh usloviyakh.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY: Was to assess the efficacy of Sensodyne toothpast for the improvement of dental hypersensitivity of various origin and the duration of the achieved effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We examined 142 patients of which 95 people had tooth sensitivity. Of these, 4 groups were formed homogeneous by age and sex. Group 1 comprised 27 people (average age 34±3 years) with I grade dental abrasion. Group 2 comprised 23 people (average age 33±5 years) with II grade dental abrasion. Group 3 consisted of 23 people (average age 37±4 years) with grade 3 abrasion with gingival recession of varying severity. Group 4 (comparison) comprised 22 people (mean age 36±4 years) with tooth hypersensitivity who were offered a different toothpaste. The severity of hyperesthesia was assessed using the Schiff method. RESULTS: The study revealed statistically significant decrease in dental sensitivity in all studied groups. The first positive results were noted by day 3. The maximum effect was achieved by day 30 regardless of the etiology of the primary pathology. The hypersensitivity decreased in group 1 from 1.69±0.59 to 0.48±0.20 (by 71.5%), in group 2 from 1.78±0.88 to 0.3±0.22 (by 83.1%), in group 3 from 1.94±0.6 to 0.35±0.17 (by 82%). The duration of the effect obtained was 60 days. In the comparison group, the symptom of hyperesthesia decreased by 51% after 30 days with gingival recession and increased abrasion of hard tissues when using another toothpaste. The achieved effect of reducing hyperesthesia was less stable. At day 60 it decreased by 30% from the maximum value. CONCLUSION: The study proved the high efficiency of the Sensodyne toothpaste as a home remedy for symptomatic treatment of hyperesthesia.

Influence of Diode Laser for the Treatment of Dentin Hypersensitivity on Microleakage of Cervical Restorations.

Noncarious cervical lesions (NCCLs) are a common clinical finding often linked with dentin hypersensitivity (DH). Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of diode laser for the treatment of DH on microleakage of subsequent NCCL restorations. Materials and Methods. Forty-eight extracted human premolars were collected. All teeth received standardized cervical preparation on both the buccal and palatal surfaces and were randomly divided into three groups (n = 16) according to the restorative material used: nanohybrid composite resin (CR), resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI), and conventional glass ionomer (GIC). The prepared cavities on the palatal surfaces were treated by diode laser using SIROlaser Blue (Sirona Dental Systems, Bensheim, Germany) prior to restoration, while preparations on the buccal surfaces were directly restored. After thermocycling, the teeth were immersed in methylene blue dye for microleakage evaluation under 40x magnification at both occlusal and cervical margins. The Kruskal-Wallis test followed by the Bonferroni tests was conducted to determine inter- and intragroup differences (P < 0.05). Results. All restorative materials tested showed some degree of microleakage with no statistically significantly different scores with or without the use of laser desensitization prior to restorative treatment. Group CR showed the least microleakage, followed by group RMGI, while group GIC showed the highest. Cervical margins showed greater microleakage than the occlusal margins where the difference was statistically significant in the RMGI group without laser pretreatment (P = 0.006) and in both groups CR (P = 0.02) and RMGI (P = 0.006) with the laser pretreatment. Conclusion. Application of diode laser for the treatment of DH prior to the restoration of teeth with NCCL did not affect the microleakage of all the restorative materials tested. All the materials showed some degree of microleakage, which was higher in gingival margins compared to occlusal margins. The resin composite shows the least microleakage among all the tested materials.

Chemical and mechanical resistance of novel experimental hybrid coatings on dentin permeability.

This study aimed to evaluate the capacity of novel experimental hybrid coatings (HC) to reduce dentin permeability and to verify their resistance to erosive and abrasive challenges. Dentin disc specimens (1 mm thick) were treated with 0.5 M EDTA solution and randomly allocated into three experimental groups (n = 10): Control (Saliva); Concentrated Hybrid Coating (TEOS/GPTMS/Y-APS); and Diluted Hybrid Coating (1:3 ratio with distilled water). Dentin permeability was assessed by hydraulic conductance in the following experimental time periods: post-EDTA, post treatment, post erosion (5 min in 0.05 M citric acid solution, pH = 3.8), and post abrasion (toothbrushing for 3,900 cycles). Dentin permeability percent was calculated with respect the values of post-EDTA for each experimental time. The morphology of the surface of extra dentin specimens was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in the same time periods (n = 3). Permeability data were analyzed by two-way repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey tests (p < .05). Both HC presented significantly lower dentin permeability than control post treatment and post erosion (p < .05), without difference between them (p > .05). Post abrasion, there were no significant difference among groups (p > .05). Post treatment and post erosion, the HC seemed to flow into the tubules, occluding them, while the tubules in control remained opened. Post abrasion, the tubules appear to be occluded in all groups. In conclusion, the experimental hybrid coatings were capable of reducing dentin permeability after treatment. They were also able to resist to erosive and abrasive challenges, with the advantage of forming thinner and colorless films that can be potentially used to treat dentin hypersensitivity.

Evaluation of 3 different treatment modalities for conservative management of attrited, sensitive molar teeth - A preliminary 12-week report.

Management of symptomatic attrited molar teeth presents various challenges. Aim of the study was to manage and evaluate the outcome of sensitive, attrited molar teeth using three different treatment options, including bioglass-containing desensitising toothpaste, Gluma desensitiser and coronal a pulpotomy using a calcium silicate-based product, Biodentine. A total of 61 attrited molar teeth, for which the patients had expressed tooth sensitivity, were included. Depending on the pulp status, treatment groups were allotted using block randomisation. Post-treatment sensitivity was assessed at 48 h, 4 and 12 weeks using 10-point visual analog scale (VAS) and Schiff Cold Air Sensitivity Scale (SCASS). Data were analysed using non-parametric statistical tests. Pulpotomies achieved significantly the least post-treatment sensitivity scores at all scheduled recalls. This interim 12-week report on management concludes that a pulpotomy, using Biodentine, was able to achieve significantly higher number of asymptomatic teeth when compared to other treatment choices.

Effects of microsurface structure of bioactive nanoparticles on dentinal tubules as a dentin desensitizer.

In this in vitro study, spherical mesoporous bioactive glass nanoparticle (MBGN) and non-porous bioactive glass nanoparticle (BGN) were fabricated. The impact of mesopores on dentinal tubule occlusion and bioactivity was compared to examine the potential of these materials in alleviating dentine hypersensitivity (DH). MBGN, dense BGN were synthesized by sol-gel methods and characterized. Bioactivity and ion dissolution ability were analyzed. Twenty-four simulated sensitive dentin discs were prepared and randomly divided into three groups (n = 8 each); Group 1, no treatment; Group 2, Dense BGN; Group 3, MBGN. Then, four discs per group were treated with 6wt.% citric acid challenge to determine the acidic resistance. The effects on dentinal tubule occlusion were observed by FESEM. The microtensile bond strength (MTBS) was also measured. Cytotoxicity was examined using the MTT assay. According to the results, dense BGN without mesopore and MBGN with mesopore were successfully fabricated. Dense BGN and MBGN occluded the dentinal tubule before and after acid challenge. However, only MBGN formed a membrane-like layer and showed hydroxyapatite formation after soaking SBF solution. There were no significant differences in MTBS among dense BGN, MBGN (P>0.05). The cell viability was above 72% of both materials. The higher bioactivity of MBGN compared with that of dense BGN arises from the structural difference and it is anticipated to facilitate dentin remineralization by inducing hydroxyapatite deposition within the dentinal tubule.

Pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of dentin hypersensitivity: an evidence-based overview for dental practitioners.

Though dentin hypersensitivity (DHS) is one of the most common complaints from patients in dental clinics, there are no universally accepted guidelines for differential diagnosis as well as selection of reliable treatment modalities for this condition. The neurosensory mechanisms underlying DHS remain unclear, but fluid movements within exposed dentinal tubules, i.e., the hydrodynamic theory, has been a widely accepted explanation for DHS pain. As several dental conditions have symptoms that mimic DHS at different stages of their progression, diagnosis and treatment of DHS are often confusing, especially for inexperienced dental practitioners. In this paper we provide an up-to-date review on risk factors that play a role in the development and chronicity of DHS and summarize the current principles and strategies for differential diagnosis and management of DHS in dental practices. We will outline the etiology, predisposing factors and the underlying putative mechanisms of DHS, and provide principles and indications for its diagnosis and management. Though desensitization remains to be the first choice for DHS for many dental practitioners and most of desensitizing agents reduce the symptoms of DHS by occluding patent dentinal tubules, the long-term outcome of such treatment is uncertain. With improved understanding of the underlying nociceptive mechanisms of DHS, it is expected that promising novel therapies will emerge and provide more effective relief for patients with DHS.

Brazilian dentists' perception of dentin hypersensitivity management.

The aim of this study was to investigate how Brazilian dentists perceive and manage dentin hypersensitivity (DH) in their clinical routine. A 13-item questionnaire-based survey was developed and sent electronically to a convenience sample of dentists. The questionnaire assessed the personal and dental practice characteristics of the sample, the occurrence of DH in their daily clinical practice, and management strategies. The data were analyzed descriptively and together with the chi-square test (a = 0.05). A total of 353 responses were obtained from September 2017 to March 2018. Of all the respondents, 62% were females, 49.9% reported fewer than five years of dental practice, and 70.5% were self-identified as private practitioners. Most of the dentists reported an estimated frequency (30-60%) of patients with DH in their practice. The most frequently cited (91.79%) trigger of DH was air blast and/or scratching with a probe. The first-choice strategy to manage DH was a dentin desensitizer (48.16%). The number of years in clinical practice did not influence DH relapse frequency (p = 0.76) significantly, or consider DH treatment as a problem (p = 0.22). The present findings indicate that, regardless of clinical experience, dentists in Brazil still consider DH management a challenge in their daily dental practice. In addition, the results suggest that guidelines should be developed to disseminate the available knowledge regarding this condition in ways that may influence decision-making processes among practitioners.

Bioactive glass and high-intensity lasers as a promising treatment for dentin hypersensitivity: An in vitro study.

This in vitro study aimed to analyze the physical and chemical characteristics of the hypersensitive human dentin-like surface after application of a bioactive glass (BG) paste (BG/Ac) irradiated or not with high-power lasers. Dentin specimens were treated with 17% Ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) solution to mimic a hypersensitive dentin and then submitted to neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser or CO2 laser irradiation prior and after application of BG/Ac. Characterizations were performed by using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results suggested that application of BG/Ac by itself caused some obstructions of dentinal tubules. Nd:YAG laser irradiation reduced the opening of the dentinal tubules with no changes in the collagen structure. CO2 laser irradiation caused dentin melting and resolidification along with cracks and chemical changes in collagen fibers. However, when BG/Ac paste was irradiated with lasers, a sequence of surface reactions between glass and dentin interface led to the formation of an amorphous hydroxyapatite layer, similar to that of an inorganic component of the normal dentin. Moreover, BG/Ac was able to prevent the formation of cracks and degradation of collagen fibers caused by CO2 irradiation. Overall, this study supports that application of BG/Ac paste irradiated by high-power laser could represent an effective and long-lasting therapeutic approach for dentin hypersensitivity.

Network meta-analysis of the desensitizing effects of lasers in patients with dentine hypersensitivity.

OBJECTIVES: This network meta-analysis compares different lasers, placebo, and no treatment in terms of their effects on dentine hypersensitivity (DH) immediately after treatment and over the long term (1 month). METHODS: A systematic electronic literature search of four databases and a manual search were performed to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining different laser treatments for the treatment of DH. Pairwise and network meta-analyses were performed to analyze the desensitization effect immediately after treatment and over the long term. The risk of bias was assessed based on the Cochrane guidelines and funnel plots. The quality of the evidence, statistical heterogeneity, inconsistencies, and ranking probability were also evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 11 RCTs were included in the network meta-analysis; 11 and 9 of these studies analyzed immediate and long-term effects, respectively. All four types of laser had a better desensitizing effect than controls immediately after treatment and over the long term, but there were no significant differences among the four different lasers. There was a significant placebo effect immediately after treatment. The laser with the highest probability of being the most effective treatment for DH was Er,Cr:YSGG immediately after treatment and over the long term (73% and 47%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: All four types of laser had significantly better effects than no treatment on DH immediately after treatment and in the long term, but there were no significant differences among the four lasers. In addition, there was a significant placebo effect, supporting the importance of including a placebo group in future studies. Furthermore, Er,Cr:YSGG may be the most effective laser for the treatment of DH immediately and over the long term. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study used network meta-analyses to compare different lasers, placebo, and no treatment over different time periods, which is to provide guidance for selecting an appropriate laser treatment in patients with DH.

Dentin tubule obturation of a bioglass-based dentin desensitizer under repeated exposure to lactid acid and brushing.

BACKGROUND: Dentin hypersensitivity is a frequent finding especially in periodontitis patients. Conventional treatment aims for obstruction of dentin tubules by disabling liquid and osmotic fluctuation to and from the pulpal chamber. A novel bioglass-based desensitizer was shown to obstruct tubules and to resist periodic exposure to lactic acid. Whether this obstruction is resistant to brushing had not been tested so far. Accordingly, the present study aimed to assess dentin tubule obstruction after repeated acid exposure and brushing. METHODS: Sixty dentin discs were cleaned with 17% EDTA, mounted into a pulp fluid simulator and randomly divided into 3 groups: No surface treatment in Group A, Seal&Protect® in group B and DentinoCer in group C. Discs were exposed to 0.1 M non-saturated lactic acid thrice and standardized brushing twice a day for 12 days. At baseline and after 2, 4 and 12 d samples were removed from the setting and prepared for top-view SEM analysis to assess tubule obstruction using the Olley score. Discs were then vertically cut and the section surface morphologically assessed using backscatter imaging. For both vertical and sectional surfaces EDX analysis was used to characterize the surface composition in the tubular and inter-tubular area. RESULTS: Group A showed clean tubular lumina at all time points. From day 2 onwards dentin showed exposed collagen fibers. Group 2 initially showed a complete surface coverage that flattened out during treatment without ever exposing tubules. At baseline, samples of Group C displayed a complete homogeneous coverage. From day 2 on tubules entrances with obstructed lumen became visible. While on day 4 and 12 the dentin surface exposed collagen fibers the lumina remained closed. EDX analysis of the vertical and horizontal views showed that P and Ca were predominant elements in both the inter- and tubular dentin while Si peaks were found in the tubule plugs. CONCLUSION: While group B displayed a packed layer on the surface during the whole investigation time group C samples lost their superficial layer within 48 h. Tubule plugs containing considerable Si proportions indicated previous presence of DentinoCer, while high Ca and P proportions suggest obturation by dentin-like material.

Effect of the casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate fluoride (CPP-ACPF) and photobiomodulation (PBM) on dental hypersensitivity: A randomized controlled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: This randomized controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effect of the casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate fluoride (CPP-ACPF) and photobiomodulation (PBM) in the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity (DH), and the impact of this on the health-related quality of life (HRQL). METHODS: Eighty teeth with DH were randomized into four groups and received three treatment sessions: PLACEBO = placebo + LASER application mimicking; CPP-ACPF = CPP-ACPF + LASER application mimicking; PBM = placebo + LASER active application; CPP-ACPF+PBM = CPP-ACPF + LASER active application. Tactile (exploratory probe) and evaporative (triple syringe) stimuli were used to measure DH and were recorded with the aid of a visual analogue scale (VAS) after the 1st, 2nd and 3rd treatment sessions and one-month follow-up. The HRQL was recorded in the DH experience questionnaire (DHEQ). RESULTS: The intragroup comparison showed a significant reduction in DH (p < 0.05) with both stimuli after one-month follow-up. The intergroup comparison with the evaporative stimulus showed that CPP-ACPF+PBM significantly reduced DH when compared to the rest of treatments, after one-month follow-up. CPP-ACPF+PBM group statistically differed from the other treatment groups in the DHEQ evaluation after one-month follow-up. CONCLUSION: After one-month follow-up, the association of CPP-ACPF with PBM was effective in the reduction of DH and promoted a positive impact on the HRQL of the participants of this study.

CPNE7 Induces Biological Dentin Sealing in a Dentin Hypersensitivity Model.

Dentin hypersensitivity commonly occurs due to opened dentinal tubules for many reasons. In our previous study, copine 7 (CPNE7) could induce dentin formation for an indirect pulp-capping model in vivo. This study aims to investigate the formation of tertiary dentin when CPNE7 is applied to intentionally exposed dentin with nothing over it in vivo, whether it affects microleakage of the teeth, and the penetration ability of CPNE7 molecules through dentinal tubules in vitro. Cervical dentin areas of 6 maxillary incisors of 5 beagles were exposed to a class V-like lesion, and 1 side of 3 maxillary incisors was adapted with recombinant CPNE7 protein for 5 min as the experimental group. The other side was the control group, and there was no treatment of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and CPNE7 after preparation. The defects were exposed without any restorations, and all beagles were sacrificed after 4 wk. The fluid penetration of exposed dentin areas was investigated by a microleakage-testing device and confocal laser scanning microscope. Tertiary dentin formation was confirmed with histological scanning electronic microscopic analysis. Tertiary dentin formation reduces dentinal fluid flow due to occluded tubules or discontinuity with primary or secondary dentin. The in vivo hypersensitivity model with the anterior teeth of beagle dogs showed newly formed tertiary dentin at the dentin-pulp boundary in recombinant CPNE7-treated teeth when compared with the untreated control group in histologic analysis. Scanning electronic microscopic analysis revealed occluded sites with mineral deposition of intratubular dentin. In the permeability test, the mean microleakage value of the CPNE7-treated group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P < 0.05). The tubular penetration of rhodamine B-combined CPNE7 was confirmed under confocal laser scanning microscope. CPNE7 induces formation of tertiary dentin through shallowly exposed dentinal tubules, which decreases dentin permeability.