Clinical evaluation of diamine silver fluoride/potassium iodide as a dentine desensitizing agent: a pilot study

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of an experimental diamine silver fluoride/potassium iodide product with an oxalic acid-based preparation in reducing dentine hypersensitivity. METHODS: The study was conducted as a double-blind, randomized clinical trial. A total of 19 subjects with dentine hypersensitivity on both sides of their upper arch were selected. The most sensitive tooth in each quadrant was identified and received a cold stimulus. The response was recorded on a visual analogue scale (VAS). The tooth thus selected was treated with one of the treatment agents. One week later the level of dentine sensitivity was assessed. Participants were also asked for their subjective assessment of treatment effects. RESULTS: The mean difference between VAS at baseline and seven days for teeth treated with diamine silver fluoride/potassium iodide was greater than that for teeth treated with the oxalic acid-based preparation (p = 0.0134). The subjects’ subjective assessment of changes in dentine hypersensitivity indicated that more obtained relief with the diamine silver fluoride/potassium iodide treatment (p = 0.0129). CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that an experimental diamine silver fluoride/potassium iodide product has potential as a treatment for dentine hypersensitivity.G.G. Craig, G.M. Knight and J.M. McIntyr