Efficacy of Experimental Propolis-Based Toothpastes on Dentin Hypersensitivity: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background. Propolis is a natural bee product that has garnered attention due to its harmlessness and numerous beneficial biological properties. This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial aimed to assess the effect of toothpastes containing different concentrations of propolis (10% and 15%) on the control of dentin hypersensitivity (DH). Methods. From adults aged 18–40 years with DH, 66 teeth were randomly divided into 3 treatment groups as follows (n = 22): control (toothpaste without active ingredient), 10% propolis toothpaste, and 15% propolis toothpaste. DH was assessed thrice (baseline and 15 and 30 days after treatment) by tactile and evaporative stimuli using the visual analog scale. Data were analyzed using Friedman and Kruskal–Wallis tests. A significance level of 5% was used in all analyses. Results. All the groups showed a reduction in DH during the study (p < 0.05). The experimental groups (10% and 15% propolis) showed significantly greater reduction in DH than the control group (p < 0.05) after 30 days of treatment; however, the experimental groups displayed similar results (p > 0.05). Conclusion. Toothpastes containing propolis at concentrations of 10% and 15% were equally effective in controlling DH, regardless of their concentration. Trial Registration. This trial is registered with NCT05083052. Date of registration: 19/10/2021.