Effect of a desensitizing dentifrice on dentinal hypersensitivity

The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a dentifrice with 2% dibasic sodium citrate in poloxamer 407 in decreasing dentinal hypersensitivity. The test toothpaste was compared with a control toothpaste containing 0.76% sodium monofluorophosphate in a 6-week double-blind clinical trial. A total of 75 hypersensitive teeth were examined in the test group, while 100 hypersensitive teeth were in the control group. Changes in hypersensitivity levels were monitored after 6 weeks, using thermal, chemical and mechanical stimuli. At the end of 6 weeks, the test dentifrice was not significantly more effective than the control in decreasing dentinal hypersensitivity. Of the stimuli used, cold was the most effective in eliciting a hypersensitive response, followed by chemical stimulation and air. Heat and toothbrushing caused the least discomfort.