ABSTRACT
Using laser for treatment of dentin hypersensitivity (DH) have recently shown promising results
and better immediate reduction in pain scores. However, its efficacy and mechanism of action is
controversial. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of diode laser compared with
sodium fluoride varnish in treating DH in patients with gingival recession. Eighteen patients with
Miller’s class I and class II gingival recession and hypersensitivity in at least two non-adjacent
teeth were included in the study. Test surfaces (n = 25) were treated with diode laser, whilst control
surfaces (n = 23) were treated with 5% sodium fluoride varnish. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores
were recorded for air and tactile stimulus for both groups at baseline, 15 min, 1 month and 3 months
post-treatment. Results showed significant (p < 0.05) reduction in VAS scores at 15 min, 1 month
and 3 months compared with baseline in both test and control surfaces, with no significant intergroup
differences. However, the percentage reduction in DH was more in laser at all evaluation periods.
The use of diode laser and sodium fluoride varnish showed good immediate and prolonged results.
Further studies are needed to come up with more effective treatment methods.
Lasers, Semiconductor
;
Dentin Sensitivity
;
Gingival Recession