Clinical evaluation of the effect of a remineralizing toothpaste on dentinal sensitivity

Dentinal hypersensitivity is a common dental problem without a satisfactory solution. Most therapies have focused on either trying to block the stimulation of dentinal nerves or on sealing open dentinal tubules. This study evaluated, in a double blind clinical trial, the effect of Enamelon, a dentifrice containing sodium fluoride, calcium salts and phosphate salts (calcium separated from the phosphate and fluoride by a plastic divider in the tube to prevent interaction) on dentinal hypersensitivity over an 8-week period. A conventional OTC dentifrice containing NaF without calcium and phosphate enhancement served as the control. A third dentifrice, containing sodium monofluorophosphate enhanced by calcium and phosphate salts, was also tested. Based upon subjective anecdotal information, net numbers of sensitive teeth which became non-sensitive, and a logit analysis of the change in the proportion of sensitive teeth over the study time period, Enamelon was the most effective product, and the OTC control the least effective.