A Short‐Term Evaluation of the Efficacy of Two Desensitising Toothpastes in the Treatment of Dentinal Hypersensitivity

Background Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) is a common oral condition. The management of DH has been challenging with various treatment options, including in‐office and home care. Objective To evaluate the efficacy of hydroxyapatite‐containing toothpaste for the reduction of DH pain compared to potassium nitrate‐containing toothpaste in short‐term use. Methods A randomised; non‐blinded clinical study involved 39 participants in the age group range 18–51 years. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. The test group ( n = 19) was provided with hydroxyapatite toothpaste, while the control group ( n = 20) received potassium nitrate toothpaste. Volunteers were examined using an air blast as the stimulus. DH pain scores (Visual Analogue Scale [VAS] and Schiff) were recorded at baseline, 2 weeks and 4 weeks. Results Both toothpastes significantly relieved DH in response to air‐blast stimulus ( p < 0.001). The relief of sensitivity was efficacious after 2 and 4 weeks for both toothpastes. The efficacy of hydroxyapatite toothpaste was comparable to that of potassium nitrate toothpaste. Conclusion This study shows that hydroxyapatite in higher concentrations has a similar efficacy in relieving DH as potassium nitrate. Clinical Significance DH affects the quality of life. The use of a desensitising toothpaste can relieve DH. However, there is no gold‐standard management for DH. The outcome of this study supports the use of hydroxyapatite toothpaste for DH relief.