Biomedical subjects

D G Gillam

Publications and source records attributed to D G Gillam.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2005

In vitro quantification of changes in human dentine tubule parameters using SEM and digital analysis.

Dentine hypersensitivity is recognized as a pain arising from fluid movement within dentine tubules that are open to the oral environment. Blocking the tubules is considered to be the principal aim of treatment, and the accurate assessment of tubule occlusion is the primary goal of many in vitro studies. This assessment usually comprises either measuring tubule permeability or scanning electron microscope examination of the dentine surface. Several scanning microscopy studies have claimed to quantify tubule occlusion, but are descriptive, qualitative or semi-quantitative evaluations. The present study was undertaken to assess the use of digital image analysis in quantifying the effectiveness of a selected desensitizing agent from micrographs of control and treated dentine surfaces. Using a dentine disc model, an accurate methodology was sought to investigate the occluding potential of Butler Protect (J.O. Butler, Chicago, IL, USA). Subjective examination of the images indicated there was little difference after a single application, but considerable effect after 20 applications. Quantitative digital analysis of a test image, demonstrated reproducibility between two examiners when used in fully- and semi-automated mode. After a single application of Butler Protect, multilevel statistical modelling demonstrated decreases in tubule area and maximum, minimum and mean diameter measurements (P < 0.001), whereas single level analysis showed increases in area and maximum and mean diameters. Multiple application of Butler Protect demonstrated even greater decreases in all parameters (P < 0.001). This quantitative methodology was reproducible between examiners and, when combined with good controls and multilevel statistical modelling, was able to discriminate a single application of desensitizing agent.

Humans↗

PubMed2004

Clinical evaluation of ferric oxalate in relieving dentine hypersensitivity.

Previous in vitro permeability and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of the oxalate ion in dentine permeability reduction and effective tubule occlusion. The aim of this randomized double-blind, split mouth 4-week clinical study, therefore was to determine whether a 1-min application of ferric oxalate (Sensodyne Sealant) on exposed root dentine was effective in reducing dentine hypersensitivity (DH). Thirteen subjects [8F:5M, mean age 46.2 (s.d. 4.15) years] completed the study. The subjective response was evaluated by tactile, thermal and evaporative methods of assessment. Data were collected at baseline and post-application at +5 min and 4 weeks. Analysis was based on paired t-test (P=0.05) and Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney tests. No statistically significant differences were noted between ferric oxalate and placebo preparations at +5 min and 4 weeks for any of the test stimuli. There was, however, a clear trend towards immediate reduction (+5 min) in DH reverting back to baseline values at 4 weeks with the exception of the Biomat Thermal Probe mean values, which maintained the reductions in DH compared with placebo. The results of the present study demonstrated that a 1-min application of ferric oxalate is both rapid and effective in reducing DH although its long-term effectiveness still needs to be determined.

Cold Temperature↗

PubMed2003

The effect of a toothpaste containing 2% zinc citrate and 0.3% Triclosan on bacterial viability and plaque growth in vivo compared to a toothpaste containing 0.3% Triclosan and 2% copolymer.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the antimicrobial efficacy and effect on plaque growth of a new silica-based fluoride toothpaste containing 2% zinc citrate/ 0.3% Triclosan with a silica-based fluoride toothpaste containing 0.3% Triclosan/2% copolymer. METHODS: In Study 1, plaque was collected after one week's use of each toothpaste and assessed for bacterial viability, live/ dead ratio and microbial membrane integrity. In study 2, plaque was measured immediately and 18 hours after a single brushing with the specified toothpastes. RESULTS: The 2% zinc citrate/0.3% Triclosan formulation significantly reduced the total number of viable aerobic and anaerobic bacteria (p = 0.0223 and p = 0.0443 respectively) compared to the 0.3% Triclosan/2% copolymer formulation. Both toothpastes increased the bacterial membrane permeability significantly. However, the proportion of live bacteria for the 2% zinc citrate/0.3% Triclosan product was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Study 2 showed significantly less plaque growth 18 hours after using the 2% zinc citrate/0.3% Triclosan toothpaste compared to the 0.3% Triclosan/2% copolymer toothpaste (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Regular use of a fluoride toothpaste containing 2% zinc citrate and 0.3% Triclosan, significantly reduced the viability of plaque bacteria compared to a fluoride toothpaste containing 0.3% Triclosan/ 2% copolymer 12 hours after brushing. In addition, a clinical plaque growth study confirmed that this anti-microbial efficacy leads to a significant reduction in plaque growth.

Adult↗

PubMed2003

The effect of oral care feed-back devices on plaque removal and attitudes towards oral care.

OBJECTIVES: Two studies were carried out to investigate whether the effect of specific oral care feed-back devices would result in better plaque removal (Study 1) and lead to changes in attitudes and views relating to oral health (Study 2). The objective of the first study was to compare the ability of a toothbrush system consisting of a new toothbrush plus plaque disclosing tablet (SIGNAL Integral) to remove supra-gingival plaque to that of a marketed toothbrush (Oral B Cross Action) following a single unsupervised brushing. METHODS: Study 1 had a cross-over design and included 21 healthy adult volunteers. Subjects refrained from any form of oral hygiene for 24 hours prior to each test session. Plaque levels (Modified Quigley-Hein Plaque index) were assessed prior to and following each unsupervised brushing. When the new toothbrush was used, subjects self-disclosed their plaque with a disclosing tablet (erythrosine) immediately prior to brushing. At each occasion, brushing time (in sec) was also recorded. Study 2 had a two-cell, parallel design (test and control group) and lasted for five days. Healthy adult volunteers were enrolled. Subjects in the test group (n = 30) were given a fluoride toothpaste and four saliva test strips to use at home. The saliva test strip is designed to change colour in the pH range of 6.5 to 10, allowing the user to verify the effect of brushing. The control group (n = 29) received no saliva test strips. Subjects completed a questionnaire after 4 days of product use. RESULTS: In Study 1, significantly more plaque was removed (p < 0.05) and brushing time was increased by more than 20% when subjects used the new toothbrush together with the disclosing tablet compared to brushing with the marketed toothbrush. In Study 2, significant increases in motivation relating to oral hygiene were found in the test group who had been using the saliva test strip. CONCLUSION: The two studies have provided significant evidence that the provision of feed-back devices in an oral care context can lead to improved removal of plaque and increased motivation.

Adult↗

PubMed2002

A study of the prevalence and distribution of dentine sensitivity in a population of 17-58-year-old serving personnel on an RAF base in the Midlands.

Previous studies have reported on dentine sensitivity (DS) prevalence in hospital and general practice populations. Results from these studies indicate that perception and prevalence of DS vary depending on the population. The study aimed to determine any major differences in the perception and prevalence of DS in subjects in a military training establishment. Questionnaires from 228 subjects [188 completed by males, 39 completed by females, with one person not indicating their gender of mean age 24.0 years (s.d. 7.16)] were collected and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Fifty percent of the subjects (n=114) claimed to have DS. Yet approximately 30% of the subjects (29.8%, n=68) perceived the condition as a slight problem and approximately 40% of the subjects (40.8%, n=93) claimed it was an occasional problem and approximately 50% (49.1%, n=112) did not seek treatment. Seventeen subjects (7.5%) used a desensitizing paste during periods of discomfort. No clear pattern emerged with regard to seasonal variation in DS although 5.7% (n=13) subjects considered DS to be more of a problem in winter. Only 7.9% (n=18) reported any previous periodontal surgery, consistent with previous studies (12.6 and 15.5%). Of those who received regular scaling (27.2%, n=62), only 23 (10.1%) reported any discomfort following treatment, which did not last >or=5 days. The results indicate that self-reporting of DS was similar to previous reports, although it is of fundamental importance that such studies should be supplemented with a thorough clinical examination to determine more reliable prevalence data.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2002

Dentists' perceptions of dentine hypersensitivity and knowledge of its treatment.

The aim of the present investigation was to determine by questionnaire, UK dentists' perception of Dentine Hypersensitivity (DH) and knowledge of its treatment. A total of 403 questionnaires were sent to a selected group of UK dentists who had either inquired about further postgraduate education or had attended a course at the Eastman Dental Institute/Hospital. A total of 181 of 403 dentists (44.9%) (118M; 36F, 17 no response, mean age 38.2 years [s.d. 8.97]) returned the questionnaire. About 92.8% (n=168) of responding dentists claimed to see patients with DH in their practice. According to the dentists' replies at least one of four of their patients suffered from the complaint. About 71.8% (n=130) of dentists reported that DH was a severe problem in at least 10% of their patients and that pain from DH lasted no more than 4 weeks. Most of responding dentists claimed to be asked about DH by their patients and stated that they offered advice or treatment to their patients. Nearly 87.3% (n=158) of responding dentists provided a wide range of treatment options/advice which included both in-office and over-the-counter (OTC) products. Popular responses included desensitizing pastes/gels, Topical F(-) varnishes and toothpastes/rinses/gels, advice on atraumatic tooth brushing, dentine bonding agents (DBA), glass-ionomer cements (GIC) and other unspecified restorations. Of the various in-office treatments Duraphat was the most cited choice of varnish/primer options. Sensodyne toothpaste was the most popular of the specified OTC products. Most dentists appeared to understand the aetiological features associated with DH and provided a wide range of factors including the effects of incorrect tooth brushing, dietary acids as well as the possible influence on non-dental topics such as stress. Most responding dentists believed that their advice on DH was generally effective although they did highlight that certain aspects on the condition were lacking such as appropriate scientific information including the prevention of DH and its treatment. The results from the present study highlight several discrepancies in the perception and knowledge of the treatment of DH between dentists and their patients. The results from this study are, however, reasonably consistent with those previously reported by Dutch investigators. The results from this study also highlighted a need for guidelines on the aetiology, prevention and treatment of DH for both dentists and their patients. The reported average frequency and duration of discomfort from DH by the responding dentists appeared to be consistent with the available literature.

Adult↗

PubMed2002

Dentine hypersensitivity in subjects recruited for clinical trials: clinical evaluation, prevalence and intra-oral distribution.

Relatively few studies have reported on the frequency, distribution and severity of dentine hypersensitivity (DH) in subjects recruited for clinical trials of desensitizing agents. Potential subjects (n= 48 M, 81 F, mean age 35.1 years) for inclusion into such a study were screened to determine the extent of the problem. 117 subjects (41 M, 76 F) mean age 24.9 years were clinically examined. Evaluation by questionnaire indicated that the prevalence of DH was proportionately higher in the 20-29.9 years (34.9%), and 30-39.9 years groups (33.3%), respectively. Sensitivity to cold was the main presenting symptom. Tactile (probe) and cold air (dental air syringe) stimuli were used to clinically evaluate DH. Of the teeth eligible for evaluation 1561/3136 (49.8%) responded to either one or both of the test stimuli; 274/3136 (8.7%) responded to tactile only stimulation, 779/3136 (24.8%) to thermal only stimulation and 508/3136 (16.2%) to both tactile and thermal stimulation. Of those teeth responding to the stimuli, 477 (30.6%) were premolars, 437 (28%) incisors, 415 (26.8%) molars and 232 (14.9%) canines. The results agree with those of previously reported studies in that DH is most frequently observed on premolars and that proportionately more teeth are sensitive to evaporative than to tactile stimulation. Furthermore it would appear from the results of the study that tactile is less effective than thermal/evaporative stimulation in the evaluation of DH.

Adult↗

PubMed2002

The effects of a novel Bioglass dentifrice on dentine sensitivity: a scanning electron microscopy investigation.

Dentine sensitivity (DS) is a common condition which affects 8-35% of the population. Both In-Office and Over-the-Counter products have been used in treatment, usually occluding open dentine tubules on the exposed root surface. Currently there appears to be no ideal material which permanently occludes dentine tubules. Bioactive and biocompatible glasses are known to induce osteogenesis in physiological systems and may offer suitable materials for surface reactivity which could theoretically occlude tubules. A new dentifrice formulation containing a modified Bioglass material replacing part of the abrasive silica component was compared with original 45S6 bioactive glass. Dentine discs were treated with original Bioglass, three coded dentifrices containing 0, 2.5 and 7.5% Bioglass and two further selected dentifrice products. These specimens were prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and viewed in a Cambridge stereoscan 90B. The results demonstrated that original bioactive glass particles covered the dentine surface and/or occluded dentine tubules, although this original formulation was easily dislodged. Dentifrice with different ratios of added Bioglass was assessed to provide greater surface coverage and tubule occlusion than without Bioglass. It was concluded that the inclusion of bioactive glass particles in a suitably formulated vehicle may be an effective agent for the treatment of dentine sensitivity.

Biocompatible Materials↗

PubMed2001

Utilisation of locally delivered doxycycline in non-surgical treatment of chronic periodontitis. A comparative multi-centre trial of 2 treatment approaches.

AIM: In the present 6-month multicentre trial, the outcome of 2 different approaches to non-surgical treatment of chronic periodontitis, both involving the use of a locally delivered controlled-release doxycycline, was evaluated. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 105 adult patients with moderately advanced chronic periodontitis from 3 centres participated in the trial. Each patient had to present with at least 8 periodontal sites in 2 jaw quadrants with a probing pocket depth (PPD) of > or =5 mm and bleeding following pocket probing (BoP), out of which at least 2 sites had to be > or =7 mm and a further 2 sites > or =6 mm. Following a baseline examination, including assessments of plaque, PPD, clinical attachment level (CAL) and BoP, careful instruction in oral hygiene was given. The patients were then randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups: scaling/root planing (SRP) with local analgesia or debridement (supra- and subgingival ultrasonic instrumentation without analgesia). The "SRP" group received a single episode of full-mouth supra-/subgingival scaling and root planing under local analgesia. In addition, at a 3-month recall visit, a full-mouth supra-/subgingival debridement using ultrasonic instrumentation was provided. This was followed by subgingival application of an 8.5% w/w doxycycline polymer at sites with a remaining PPD of > or =5 mm. The patients of the "debridement" group were initially subjected to a 45-minute full-mouth debridement with the use of an ultrasonic instrument and without administration of local analgesia, and followed by application of doxycycline in sites with a PPD of > or =5 mm. At month 3, sites with a remaining PPD of > or =5 mm were subjected to scaling and root planing. Clinical re-examinations were performed at 3 and 6 months. RESULTS: At 3 months, the proportion of sites showing PPD of < or =4 mm was significantly higher in the "debridement" group than in the "SRP" group (58% versus 50%; p<0.05). The CAL gain at 3 months amounted to 0.8 mm in the "debridement" group and 0.5 mm in the "SRP" group (p=0.064). The proportion of sites demonstrating a clinically significant CAL gain (> or =2 mm) was higher in the "debridement" group than in the "SRP" group (38% versus 30%; p<0.05). At the 6-month examination, no statistically significant differences in PPD or CAL were found between the two treatment groups. BoP was significantly lower for the "debridement" group than for the "SRP" group (p<0.001) both at 3- and 6 months. The mean total treatment time (baseline and 3-month) for the "SRP" patients was 3:11 h, compared to 2:00 h for the patients in the "debridement" group (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The results indicate that simplified subgingival instrumentation combined with local application of doxycycline in deep periodontal sites can be considered as a justified approach for non-surgical treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Adult↗

PubMed2001

Comparison of dentine hypersensitivity in selected occidental and oriental populations.

Epidemiological data on dentine hypersensitivity (DH) prevalence are limited. Few studies have compared prevalence between populations. The aim of this investigation, therefore, was to compare the perception and prevalence of DH in two distinct non-periodontal practice populations, one U.K. and one Korean. Completed questionnaires from 557 patients (230 males and 327 females, comprising 115 males and 162 females, mean age 41.7 years (s.d.=14.36), U.K. and 115 males and 165 females, mean age 29.7 years (s.d.=11.86), Korean) were collected. Analysis was by frequency distribution and cross-tabulation (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)). DH prevalence was similar and at levels comparable with those reported previously. Prevalence was higher in the third and fourth decades in both populations. Although there were no differences between U.K. or Korean males and U.K. or Korean females, there was a significant difference between gender reporting of DH, with more females complaining of DH than males (standard normal deviation (SND)=4.3, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.1134-0.2736). DH appeared to be regarded by patients as not severe in most cases, so treatment was not generally sought. Of those who claimed to have sought treatment, a significant number had received restorative treatment. Of those patients, only 23.3% of U.K. and or=7 days in either population. The results indicated that there were no significant differences between U.K.- and Korean-based populations in their perception of DH, with the exception that more females complained of sensitivity than males in both groups. Overall, DH was not considered a major dental problem by most patients in either of the populations.

Adult↗

PubMed2001

The effects of oxalate-containing products on the exposed dentine surface: an SEM investigation.

In-office products containing oxalates have been claimed to be clinically effective in reducing dentine sensitivity, although there has been limited supporting clinical data. The rationale for their use appears to be based on their potential to act as occluding and/or nerve desensitizing agents. Four commercially available oxalate-containing products were applied to etched dentine discs and the extent of tubule occlusion was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Tenure Quick (aluminium oxalate), Sensodyne Sealant (ferric oxalate) and MS Coat (oxalic acid) covered the dentine surface and occluded the tubules. However, Butler Protect (potassium oxalate) did not cover the surface to any great extent but provided some occlusion. The presence of oxalates after application to glass slides and dentine discs was examined using thin film X-ray diffraction. From samples on glass, only potassium oxalate could be clearly identified (JCPDS 14-0845). No oxalate was detected on dentine discs in either thin film geometry or standard theta two theta mode. We have demonstrated that professionally applied in-office products containing oxalate are capable of covering the dentine surface and/or occluding the tubules to varying degrees. However, X-ray diffraction analysis was unable to confirm the oxalate profile for all products as described in the available commercial literature.

Acid Etching, Dental↗

PubMed2000

The efficacy of potassium salts as agents for treating dentin hypersensitivity.

Formulations containing potassium salts (e.g., chloride, nitrate, citrate, oxalate) are widely used for treating dentin hypersensitivity (DH). The purpose of this review was to evaluate evidence for the clinical efficacy of potassium salts in reducing DH and also to consider the biologic basis for any effects. Literature searches were used to identify reports of clinical trials of potassium-containing preparations. Searches revealed 3 trials of potassium nitrate solutions or gels; 2 trials of mouthwashes containing potassium nitrate or citrate; 6 trials of potassium oxalates; and 16 double-blind randomized trials of toothpastes containing potassium nitrate, chloride, or citrate. The toothpaste studies provided quantitative data on treatment effects. These outcome measures were expressed as percentage reductions in sensitivity to cold air and mechanical stimulation and the patients' subjective reports. Trials of topically applied solutions yielded inconsistent results. Potassium-containing mouthwashes produced significant reductions in sensitivity. All potassium-containing toothpastes produced a significant reduction in sensitivity to tactile and air stimuli, as well as subjectively reported sensitivity. In most studies, the active agent (potassium) was superior to the minus-active control (placebo), but a few of the more recent trials have demonstrated significant placebo effects. It is postulated that potassium ions released from toothpastes diffuse along the dentinal tubules to inactivate intradental nerves. However, this principle has never been confirmed in intact human teeth. The mechanism of the desensitizing effects of potassium-containing toothpastes remains uncertain at present.

Dentin Sensitivity↗

PubMed1999

Perceptions of dentine hypersensitivity in a general practice population.

Recent studies have attempted to determine the prevalence of dentine hypersensitivity (DH) in both hospital and general practice. Results indicate that DH prevalence is higher in patients referred for specialist treatment than in general practice. The aim of this study was to determine perception and prevalence of DH in general practice. Completed questionnaires from 277 patients (115 males, 162 females, mean age 41.7 years [SD 14.36]) were collected. Self-reported DH prevalence (52%) was observed between the third and fourth decades, peaking in the third and in good agreement with that previously published (45.2%), and significantly more females complained of DH than males (SND=2.24, 95% CI 0.01734-0.2661). Cold was perceived as the most common cause of DH, in agreement with other studies. Only 12.6% of patients reported periodontal surgery compared to 15.5% previously. Of those who received hygiene therapy (67.9%) only 15.5% reported DH following treatment which mainly did not last >/=5 days. Most patients with DH did not perceive the condition as severe and did not seek treatment (75.1%). Only 23.3% used a desensitizing dentifrice. The results indicated that self-reporting of DH is lower than reported in a dental hospital population and was not perceived as a major dental problem by most patients in a general dental practice population.

Adult↗

PubMed1999

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigation of selected desensitizing agents in the dentine disc model.

Dentine sensitivity is a painful clinical conditions that can affect up to 35% of the population at any one time. Both professionally available (in-office) or commercially available (over-the-counter) products have been used to treat dentine sensitivity. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether selected in-office desensitizing agents occluded dentine tubules in the dentine disc model. Both surface effects and tubule penetration of the five selected test products were examined by scanning electron microscopy. The results of the present study appeared to demonstrate that all of the applied desensitizing agents produced some occlusion of the tubules although the level of coverage and occlusion varied between the products. Of all the agents tested, ferric oxalate, the active ingredient of Sensodyne Sealant, produced crystal-like structures which occluded a higher proportion of the tubules across the dentine disc surface. ALL-BOND 2 and One-Step (both light-cured primer systems) produced similar crystal-like structures and, although coverage was not uniform across the disc surface, there was some reduction in tubule diameter. These three products, however, appeared to be more effective than either Butler Protect (potassium oxalate) or Oxa-gel (potassium oxalate in a gel) where there was a marked decrease in both the level of coverage and tubule occlusion. Both quantitative and functional studies are required in order to determine the effects of these agents on dentine permeability (fluid flow) as well as clinical studies to determine their effectiveness over time in reducing pain arising from dentine sensitivity.

Dentifrices↗

PubMed1997

Aetiology, prevalence and clinical features of cervical dentine sensitivity.

Cervical dentine sensitivity (CDS) is a painful response to thermal, physical or chemical stimulation of the cervical area of the tooth. The reported prevalence of this clinical condition ranges from 8 to 35% depending on the population studied and methodology used to evaluate CDS. Detailed epidemiology is lacking with regard to possible causal factors. Well conducted studies in larger populations using accepted standardized methodology for both questionnaire and clinical examination are essential if these factors are to be identified and the condition successfully prevented and treated. This paper reviews current literature on the prevalence, aetiology and oral distribution of this troublesome condition.

Dentin Sensitivity↗

PubMed1997

Clinical evaluation of cervical dentine sensitivity in a population of patients referred to a specialist periodontology department: a pilot study.

The prevalence of tooth sensitivity [Cervical Dentine Sensitivity (CDS)] in adult populations indicates that 8-35% of subjects reported CDS depending on the population studied and the methodology used. Few studies, however, have reported on the prevalence of CDS in periodontal patients. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence, severity and distribution of CDS in patients referred for specialist periodontal diagnosis. Fifty-one patients [27 male, 24 female; mean age 48.5 years (standard deviation 11.63)] who gave their informed written consent were clinically evaluated for CDS using recognized methods of assessment, namely Yeaple probe, cold air blast and subjective evaluation. Other clinical variables (e.g. plaque and recession scores) were also recorded at this visit. Regression analysis and correlation coefficients were used to determine the relationship between the clinical variables. The results demonstrated a prevalence of CDS ranging between 72.5 and 98% of patients, with no significant gender difference. Results for the distribution of tooth types showed that molar teeth were mainly affected, followed by left canines and premolars. No correlation was noted between plaque, recession, response to tactile or thermal stimulation. Pain response from tactile and thermal stimulation showed no significant difference between tooth surfaces. Cold stimulation was perceived to be the dominant pain-producing stimulus as had been previously reported. The results of this investigation support those from another study, which found the prevalence of CDS to be higher in periodontal patients than has been reported elsewhere. This finding would suggest that previous periodontal treatment and/or periodontal disease may play a role in the aetiology of CDS.

Adolescent↗

PubMed1997

The dentine disc. A review of its applicability as a model for the in vitro testing of dentine hypersensitivity.

The dentine disc has been extensively used as a model for assessing potential desensitizing agents in vitro by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Although the disc provides a readily available and reproducible test substrate, this paper addresses the problems associated with this model such as the natural variation in the dentine tubules and the resulting differences in surface morphology. At the ultrastructural level the surface of a single etched disc exhibits variations in the size, density, orientation and extent of etching of the cut dentine tubules. In the present study a precise control procedure was designed which allowed greater correlation between test and control surfaces. Two adjacent areas of the same disc were used, one as the test surface, the other the control. Two proprietary desensitizers were examined using this methodology. This study has shown that the dentine disc is a good, reliable model for in vitro screening and testing of potential desensitizing agents, providing such controls are applied.

Dentin↗

PubMed1997

Comparison of two desensitizing agents for the treatment of cervical dentine sensitivity.

Numerous desensitizing agents have been utilized in an effort to alleviate the discomfort associated with cervical dentine sensitivity (CDS). Recently several new tubule-occluding and sealant systems have been marketed for treatment. The aim of this study was to compare two desensitizing agents (ALL-BOND 2 and Butler Protect) in a 3-month clinical study. Ten subjects (6F; 4M mean age 45.1 years (SD 8.81) who had provided voluntary written informed consent participated in a single-blind 3-month clinical study. Subjects were evaluated for tactile (Yeaple probe) and air sensitivity (dental air syringe) together with subjective perception of pain (VAS scores) at 0.5 min, 1, 2 and 3 months. There was an overall trend in reduction of CDS over the study period in all group with no significant differences detected between groups. The results suggested that while subjects reported overall reductions in sensitivity levels, this may not necessarily be substantiated when assessed objectively. Furthermore, there appeared to be a strong placebo effect in this study.

Adolescent↗