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 dentifric e containing 5.0% potassium nitrate and 0.454% stannous fluoride in a silic a base (Colgate Sensitive Maximum Strength) for reducing dentin hypersensit ivity over an 8-wk period, as compared to that provided by a commercially-a vailable antihypersensitivity dentifrice containing 5.0% potassium nitrate and 0.76% sodium monofluorophosphate in a dicalcium phosphate base (Fresh M int Sensodyne dentifrice). Materials and Methods: To qualify for participat ion in this examiner-blind study, male and female adults from the San Franc isco, California area were required to present with tactile and air blast d entin hypersensitivity in at least 2 non-molar teeth at two examinations, s paced 1 wk apart. Qualifying subjects were randomized into two treatment gr oups, which were balanced for gender, age, and baseline sensitivity scores. Subjects were provided with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Examinations for t actile and air blast sensitivity were repeated after 4 wks' use of the stud y dentifrices, and again after 8 wks' usage. Results: 101 subjects complied with the protocol, and completed the entire study. After 4 wks, subjects a ssigned to the Colgate Sensitive Maximum Strength group exhibited a statist ically significant improvement over the Fresh Mint Sensodyne dentifrice gro up with respect to tactile sensitivity scores, and a statistically signific ant improvement over the Sensodyne dentifrice group with respect to air bla st sensitivity scores. Correspondingly significant improvements were presen ted after 8 wks. Thus, the results of this examiner-blind clinical study su pport the conclusion that Colgate Sensitive Maximum Strength dentifrice pro vided superior levels of control of tactile and air blast sensitivity than did the clinically tested, commercially-available Sensodyne anti-hypersensi tivity dentifrice.