A Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of 5% Potassium Nitrate Gel on Sensitivity During Ultrasonic Scaling

Abstract

Context: Ultrasonic scaling is a routinely performed procedure in dental practice. During ultrasonic scaling, sensitivity of teeth is a common occurrence. The sensitivity of teeth causes discomfort and pain to many patients. The potassium nitrate is an antihypersensitivity agent used effectively in dentifrices. Aims: The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of 5% potassium nitrate gel application on the reduction of sensitivity during ultrasonic scaling. Settings and Design: This study is a randomized controlled trial with a split-mouth design. A total of 100 patients were recruited in the study after informed consent. Subjects and Methods: Mandibular anterior teeth were selected as the area for study. About 5% potassium nitrate gel was applied to the left or right side of the teeth. After 5 min, ultrasonic scaling was performed for both test and control sides. Visual analog scale (VAS) and patient satisfaction were recorded for both the groups. Statistical Analysis Used: An unpaired t-test was used to analyze the mean VAS scores with the area treated with or without application of 5% potassium gel during ultrasonic scaling. Chi-square test was used to analyze the satisfaction level with the test and control group. Results: The mean VAS scores and patient satisfaction for the test group were (P < 0.001) statistically significant as compared to the control group. Conclusions: Potassium nitrate gel can be effectively used before ultrasonic scaling to reduce sensitivity.

Comparative efficacy of diode laser, Iontophoresis and desensitizing agent in the treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity: A randomized clinical trial

“…Three teeth (single rooted or multirooted) were evaluated per patient with hypersensitivity due to periodontal disease (gingival recession) or wasting disease (abrasion, attrition, erosion, abreaction at cervical third area). Based on the present understanding of hypersensitivity and methods of assessment, this clinical study was carried out employing three methods such as diode laser with KNO3 gel, Iontophoresis with NaF application and 5% potassium nitrate on the basis of the studies done by Nandkumar A and Iyer VH [31] (diode laser + KNO 3 gel), Mangalekar SB et al [18] (for Iontophoresis) and Attar NB et al [23] (5% potassium nitrate) and evaluated their clinical efficiency. Potassium nitrate is the most commonly used desensitizing agent (GIII).…”

“…It shows a depolarizing effect on neural conduction which would result in diminished nerve fiber response to stimulation. Its penetration depends on the concentration and viscosity [18,23] . In this study, statistically significant reduction of DH with KNO 3 gel (GIII) was seen on 21 th day.…”