Effects of potassium oxalate on dentin hypersensitivity in vivo

This study compared 30% dipotassium oxalate (DO) and 3% monohydrogen-monopotassium oxalate (MO) on the reduction of dentin hypersensitivity in vivo. Four treatments were utilized: (1) distilled water followed by 30% DO; (2) distilled water followed by 3% MO; (3) 30% DO followed by 3% MO and (4) distilled water only. Treatments were randomly assigned so that each of the 17 participants received all four treatments, one per tooth tested. Response to cold at baseline and immediately, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks posttreatment was measured. Testing began with water at 20 degrees C and decreased at 5 degrees C intervals until a positive response was obtained or until 0 degrees C was reached. No differences were found for time when compared across treatments. When treatments were compared across time, significant reductions occurred in immediate and 4 week posttreatment measurements for treatment 2. In addition, highly significant reductions occurred in 1 week and 2 week posttreatment measurements for treatment 3. Results suggest a decrease in dentin hypersensitivity following the application of 3% MO alone, and 30% DO followed by 3% MO.