Treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity using low-level laser therapy and 5% potassium nitrate: A randomized, controlled, three arm parallel clinical study.

AIM

The present randomized study was aimed to compare the efficacy 5% potassium nitrate (KNO) toothpaste, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and LLLT with 5% KNO toothpaste in the treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity (DH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Total of 45 patients complaining of DH with visual analog scale (VAS) score being ≥2 were recruited and were divided into three groups. Group A was treated with 5% KNO toothpaste, Group B using LLLT along with the application of 5% KNO toothpaste, and Group C using LLLT alone. VAS scores were recorded at the baseline, 1, 2, and 3 weeks by the examiner who is blinded toward the treatment. The sensitivity response was evaluated using air spray and tactile sensation (explorer).

RESULTS

A greater reduction of DH was recorded at the end of 3 weeks in Group C and Group B when compared to Group A. Better results were noted in Group C at the end of the 1 week when compared to Group B. According to this study, there was no additional benefit of using toothpaste along with LLLT.

CONCLUSION

A greater reduction of DH was recorded at the end of 3 weeks in Group C and Group B when compared to Group A. Better results were noted in Group C at the end of the 1 week when compared to Group B. According to this study, there was no additional benefit of using toothpaste along with LLLT.