Comparative evaluation of efficacy of dentifrice containing nano-hydroxyapatite and 5% potassium nitrate on dentinal hypersensitivity: randomized controlled trial

Background: Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is a common oral health problem affecting one or more teeth of many individuals. Recently, considerable attention is being given to the research concerning the use of mineral components of inorganic portion of the tooth structure - calcium and phosphate in dentistry. Nano-HAP containing dentifrices are newer products which are available in market for DH. Objective: To compare and evaluate the effect of nano-HAP dentifrice with 5% Potassium nitrate containing dentifrice, which has been widely used in reducing DH. Methods: The study was a single centre, randomized double blind, parallel group design with a duration of 4 weeks. About 46 patients were selected, randomly divided into two groups and provided with one of the either dentifrices: • Nano-HAP containing - AclaimTM, Group Pharmaceuticals, Bangalore, India. • 5% Potassium Nitrate containing - RA ThermosealTM, ICPA Health Products Ltd., Mumbai, India. They were evaluated clinically using three different stimuli, i.e., tactile, air blast, and cold water test. Patient’s response to various stimuli were recorded using Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at baseline and after 4 weeks. Inter-group comparison and Intra-group comparison at baseline and after 4 weeks were evaluated using Mann-Whitney Test and Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-ranks test for non-normally distributed variables. Results: Both groups showed reduction in sensitivity scores at 4 weeks of usage of respective dentifrices, difference between groups was statistically non-significant. Conclusions: Because nano-HAP containing dentifrice showed greater reduction in sensitivity compared to potassium nitrate containing dentifrice, it may provide a new direction for treatment of DH.