NaF iontophoresis, an alternative to cavity lining--an in vivo study

The study carried out on 30 teeth in 28 patients of 12-16 years to assess NaF iontophoresis as an alternative to cavity lining revealed that out of 25 cavities which were sensitive to air, water jet and exploration (14 mild, 9 moderate and 2 severe), in 20 cavities the sensitivity decreased to nil, in 9 to mild and in one to moderate following iontophoresis. It was found that in all the cases, the first application of iontophoresis decreased the sensitivity by 50-60 percent and the second by 70-90 percent. Immediately after silver filling there was no sensitivity in 25 teeth, whereas 4 were mildly and one moderately sensitive. After a six month follow up in 24 patients who reported, all the teeth were comfortable.