Clinical Evaluation of Silver Diamine Fluoride for Managing Dentinal Hypersensitivity: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Objective: To investigate 38% Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) in reducing dentinal Hypersensitivity.

Study Design: Randomized Controlled Trial (ACTRN12624000958583)

Place and Duration of Study: Bakhtawar Amin Dental College, Multan, Pakistan, from June 2023 to December 2023

Methodology: The study involved a randomized controlled trial of 90 patients having non-carious cervical lesions or root caries, and reporting hypersensitivity in the affected tooth. Participants were arbitrarily assigned to 2 groups: Group-A received 38% SDF treatment, while Group-B received 5% Sodium Fluoride (NaF) varnish. The primary outcome was evaluated by a dental consultant using a compressed air blast to assess dentin hypersensitivity. The data were collected at baseline immediately following the intervention and at a one-month follow-up.

Results: The results indicated that SDF demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing post-operative sensitivity compared to the NaF varnish group. A total of 90 randomized teeth, 66 were evaluated after one month (32 in Group A, 34 in Group B). Postoperative sensitivity occurred in 18.7% of Group A versus 47.1% of Group B. The difference was statistically significant with p-value of 0.01476, significant at p < 0.05.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that 38% SDF is more effective than NaF varnish in reducing post-operative sensitivity, with lasting effects, making it a promising treatment for dentine hypersensitivity. While the study has limitations, including the short follow-up period and patient compliance, it provides valuable evidence for dental professionals to consider in clinical practice.