Control of dentin/root sensitivity during non-surgical and surgical periodontal treatment

AimTo determine the efficacy of a desensitizing regimen compared to a control in preventing the occurrence and/or alleviating dentin/root sensitivity (DRS) following non-surgical (NSPT) and surgical periodontal treatment (SPT). MethodsSeventy-four chronic-periodontitis patients (CPP) were randomized into a test group (n=38) using an in-office prophylaxis paste and a toothpaste at home both containing 8% arginine and calcium carbonate (Pro-Argin Technology) or into a control group (n=36) receiving a fluoride-free prophylaxis paste and a fluoride toothpaste. The examiner applied the assigned paste onto selected teeth for 3 s following NSPT and for 60s before flap closure. Patients brushed with the assigned toothpaste twice daily throughout the study. DRS to air stimulus was assessed by the Schiff scale (0-3) and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS: 0-100mm) six times over 17 weeks. ResultsIn the test group, VAS scores significantly decreased at 8, 11 and 17 weeks from baseline (p0.003) and Schiff scores at 8 and 11 weeks from baseline (p0.014). The control group exhibited significant increases in VAS and Schiff during the study period (p0.006). Marked inter-group differences were noted at all time points (p<0.001). ConclusionsThe combined use of desensitizing products (8% arginine and calcium carbonate) in-office and at-home prevented DRS development and maintained this effect for 17 weeks following NSPT and SPT.