The Combined Effectiveness of the Semiconductor Laser with Duraphat in the Treatment of Dentin Hypersensitivity

Studies of extracted teeth have shown that teeth exhibiting dentin hypersensitivity have larger numbers of widened dentinal tubules at the dentin surface compared to nonsensitive teeth. Various methods and materials used in the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity are thought to achieve therapeutic benefit by tubule occlusion. However, the effectiveness of semiconductor laser therapy in the reduction of dentin hypersensitivity without tubules occlusion has been reported. The purposes of this investigation were (1) to evaluate the combined effectiveness of semiconductor laser with Duraphat, and (2) to compare the prolonged effectiveness of semiconductor laser with Duraphat and semiconductor laser in the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity. Thirty subjects participated in the randomized, double-blind study, and were followed up for 3 months. Two sites were treated on each patient. One received semiconductor laser treatment and the other received semiconductor laser + Duraphat treatment. Laser treatment consisted of 40–100 mW of power; working time was from 15 to 60 sec; all procedures were performed without local anesthesia. Dentin hypersensitivity was assessed by mechanical stimulus (using a sharp explorer), and thermal stimulus (using a blast of cold air from a dental syringe). Pulpal vitality was measured using an electrical stimulus. The results indicate that immediately following laser treatment and for 3 months thereafter, the subjects' perceived level of discomfort decreased. Semiconductor laser treatment reduced dentin hypersensitivity to air by 70% and to mechanical stimulus by 72% over 3 months. The semiconductor laser + Duraphat treatment reduced dentin hypersensitivity to air by 85% and to mechanical stimulation by 88%. All teeth remained vital after laser treatment, with no adverse reactions or complications. Semiconductor laser and semiconductor laser + Duraphat treatment can be used to reduce dentin hypersensitivity without detrimental pulpal effects.