Year : 2024

Volume : Volume 16

Issue : Issue 1

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Rutuja M. Chawardol
rutu.chawardol@gmail.com

Abstract

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the in vitro effectiveness of a combination of sodium fluoride and calcium phosphate-based desensitizer in occluding dentinal tubules, reducing dentin permeability, increasing microhardness, and promoting remineralization compared to single-agent treatments. Materials and Methods: (a) Sample Preparation: Forty freshly extracted human premolars and molars were sectioned to obtain dentin discs. The discs were polished and demineralized using 6% citric acid. (b) Experimental Groups: The dentin discs were divided into four groups (n=10 per group): no treatment, 5% sodium fluoride varnish, 5% calcium phosphate paste, and a combination of both. (c) Application Procedure: Treatments were applied to the dentin discs, with sodium fluoride varnish allowed to dry for 2 minutes and calcium phosphate paste applied for 1 minute before rinsing. (d) Evaluation Methods: SEM and EDS were used to assess tubule occlusion and elemental composition. Dentin permeability was measured using a fluid filtration apparatus, microhardness was tested with a Vickers hardness tester, and TMR was used to analyze mineral density. Simulated oral conditions were tested through cyclic loading and pH cycling. Results: (a) SEM Analysis: The combination treatment showed almost complete tubule occlusion (95%), significantly higher than sodium fluoride (55%) or calcium phosphate (75%) alone. (b) EDS Analysis: The combination treatment exhibited balanced calcium and fluoride levels, indicating effective integration of both components. (c) Dentin Permeability: The combination treatment reduced permeability by 90%, compared to 50% for sodium fluoride and 70% for calcium phosphate. (d) Microhardness: The combination treatment increased microhardness to 70 VHN, higher than single-agent treatments. (e) TMR Analysis: The combination group had the highest mineral density (2.5 g/cm³), indicating effective remineralization. (f) Durability: Under simulated conditions, the combination treatment retained 80% tubule occlusion and 85% microhardness. Conclusion: The combination of sodium fluoride and calcium phosphate desensitizer showed superior effectiveness in occluding dentinal tubules, reducing permeability, enhancing microhardness, and promoting remineralization. This synergistic effect suggests that the dual-action treatment is a promising solution for longlasting relief from dentinal hypersensitivity. Further clinical studies are recommended to validate these in vitro findings.