Iontophoresis and Topical Application of 8% Arginine-calcium Carbonate to Treat Dentinal Hypersensitivity

Aim and objectives: The aim and the objectives were. (1) to assess the efficacy of a desensitizing toothpaste containing 8.0% arginine-calcium carbonate (Colgate (R) Sensitive Pro-Relief (TM)), (2) to assess the efficacy of a desensitizing toothpaste containing 8.0% arginine-calcium carbonate (Colgate (R) Sensitive Pro-Relief (TM)) used in combination with iontophoresis, and (3) to compare the effectiveness of the above methods. Subjects and Methods: Two groups of 40 patients each having dentinal hypersensitivity were treated using 8% proarginine and iontophoresis. The patients were recalled after 1, 2, and 4 weeks. The scores were tabulated and the results were analyzed using SPSS statistical software. Results: Visual analog scale between the two groups showed a significant difference from the 1st week till the 4th week. ANOVA values showed the reduction in the dentinal hypersensitivity in Group 2 using the iontophoresis along with the 8.0% arginine-calcium carbonate toothpaste. The Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel correlation test of the Schiff's dentinal hypersensitivity cross-tabulation showed P < 0.001 which was statistically significant reduction after the 4th week following the application of 8.0% arginine-calcium carbonate along with iontophoresis. Conclusion: Iontophoresis, when used along with Colgate (R) Sensitive Pro-Relief (TM) toothpaste, can provide additional benefit as this provides a better sealing effect.