Desensitizing efficacy of a new dentifrice containing 5.0% potassium nitrate and 0.454% stannous fluoride.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the relative effectiveness provided by a new dentifrice containing 5.0% potassium nitrate and 0.454% stannous fluoride in a silica base (Colgate Sensitive Maximum Strength) for reducing dentin hypersensitivity over an 8-wk period, as compared to that provided by a commercially-available antihypersensitivity dentifrice containing 5.0% potassium nitrate and 0.76% sodium monofluorophosphate in a dicalcium phosphate base (Fresh Mint Sensodyne dentifrice).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: To qualify for participation in this examiner-blind study, male and female adults from the San Francisco, California area were required to present with tactile and air blast dentin hypersensitivity in at least 2 non-molar teeth at two examinations, spaced 1 wk apart. Qualifying subjects were randomized into two treatment groups, which were balanced for gender, age, and baseline sensitivity scores. Subjects were provided with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Examinations for tactile and air blast sensitivity were repeated after 4 wks' use of the study dentifrices, and again after 8 wks' usage.

RESULTS: 101 subjects complied with the protocol, and completed the entire study. After 4 wks, subjects assigned to the Colgate Sensitive Maximum Strength group exhibited a statistically significant improvement over the Fresh Mint Sensodyne dentifrice group with respect to tactile sensitivity scores, and a statistically significant improvement over the Sensodyne dentifrice group with respect to air blast sensitivity scores. Correspondingly significant improvements were presented after 8 wks. Thus, the results of this examiner-blind clinical study support the conclusion that Colgate Sensitive Maximum Strength dentifrice provided superior levels of control of tactile and air blast sensitivity than did the clinically tested, commercially-available Sensodyne anti-hypersensitivity dentifrice.