Use of Oxalate Strips in Dentistry: Overall Response and Case Studies With Recent and Longstanding Sensitivity

Practice-based research was conducted to assess professional in-office treatment of dentin hypersensitivity with a strip-based device as part of a recall visit. The study population came from two sources within the dental practice. The majority were recall patients with evident sensitivity that was observed during routine care, while others were patients with history of dentin hypersensitivity in dental records. Treatment consisted of a 1.5% oxalate gel on a polyethylene strip (Crest® Sensi-Stop™ Strips, Procter and Gamble) that was professionally applied directly to sensitivity sites. Sensitivity was measured clinically and perceptually prior to and immediately after treatment, and again 30 days later. A total of 27 adults received oxalate gel strip treatment, and analysis focused on tooth location (arch and position) to ascertain the feasibility of introducing professional strip treatment as part of routine care. Results demonstrated that patients with cervical dentin hypersensitivity were easy to identify, professional strip application was feasible at different tooth sites across both arches, and treatment resulted in both immediate and durable sensitivity effects over a 1-month period.