Efficacy of two different desensitizers: A controlled double-blind study

Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness and long-term stability of Cervitec Plus (C+) and Cervitec (C) desensitizers.

Methods: In this three-arm controlled double-blind study, 120 patients were equally assigned to one of three groups consisted of 40 patients (Group I: C+, Group II: C, Group III: placebo) depending on the degree of tooth hypersensitivity.

After tooth cleaning, either C+, C or placebo substance was applied once for 20 seconds to the exposed root surfaces of all hypersensitive teeth. Hypersensitivity was measured using a severity scale of 0 to 4 (0=no discomfort, 4=severe discomfort/pain lasting more than 5 seconds after stimulation). Before (= baseline) as well 1, 7, 30, and 90 days after application, hypersensitivity was assessed using an air syringe.

Results: After 30 days, the hypersensitivity of all affected teeth in group C+ and C had significantly changed compared to baseline (p<0.001): Group I: 0.75±0.74 (baseline: 2.17±0.78); Group II: 0.71±0.77 (baseline: 1.99±0.75). No changes were seen in the placebo group. The differences between C+ and C versus the placebo group were significant (p<0.001). The difference between C+ and C was not significant (p=0.840). After 90 days, a significant change in hypersensitivity was still observed in the C+ group (0.76±0.70) when compared to baseline (p<0.001). In the C group (1.18±0.90) the difference was not significant (p=0.84). An analysis of the results for all hypersensitive teeth and for hypersensitive anterior versus posterior teeth showed a significant difference in hypersensitivity changes between C+ and C for all hypersensitive teeth (p=0.012) and for hypersensitive anterior teeth (p=0.012) after 90 days. For hypersensitive posterior teeth the difference between C+ and C was not significant (p=0.362).

Conclusions: Both desensitizers can considerably reduce tooth hypersensitivity. When C+ is used, this effect remains stable for a substantially longer period.

Supported by Ivoclar Vivadent.