NOT ALL DESENSITIZING TOOTHPASTES PERFORM EQUALLY WELL

Selection Criteria The authors performed an unrestricted search of 8 databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, CENTRAL [Cochrane Library], ClinicalTrials.gov, the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, and the System for Information on Gray Literature in Europe) for relevant randomized control trials (RCTs) in which the investigators evaluated the efficacy of desensitizing toothpaste after 2, 4, and 8 weeks of use. The search covered the period up to December 22, 2019. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Key Study Factor The desensitizing toothpastes investigated included one of the following active desensitizing ingredients: potassium (K), strontium (Sr), stannous fluoride (SnF2), arginine (Ar), calcium sodium phosphosilicate (CSPS), or nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HA). Pair-wise and network meta-analyses were conducted to synthesize studies using a random-effects model. Main Outcome Measure Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) was quantitatively assessed using the Schiff Cold Air Sensitivity Scale. Main Results A combined total of 30 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. There was no significant difference in the desensitizing effect between toothpastes containing K, Sr, and CSPS. Toothpaste containing n-HA showed the highest probability of efficacy at 2 and 4 weeks. Toothpaste containing Ar showed the highest probability of efficacy at 8 weeks. Conclusions Desensitizing toothpastes that contain n-HA and possibly Ar may be recommended for the management of DH.