RADIATING THE WAY TO DESENSITIZATION

INTRODUCTION Dentinal hypersensitivity is a common clinical condition and the treatment outcome is not consistently successful with any particular treatment modalities. Two chief methods of treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity are tubular occlusion and blockage of nerve activity. Clinicians have used many materials and techniques to treat dentinal hypersensitivity. Research has shown that Lasers effectively occlude the dentinal tubules leading to a decrease in dentinal tubule permeability, thus reducing hypersensitivity. AIM AND OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of Diode laser in dentinal hypersensitivity. MATERIALS AND METHODS The desensitizing effect of the laser was assessed in a split mouth study. 10 patients underwent the Diode laser therapy. In the test sites effect of laser application was evaluated at 30 sec, 15 mins and 7 days, whereas in the control group sham laser was used with the similar protocol as test side. Pre and post-operative score for sensitivity was recorded on a VAS scale, at 30 sec, 15 mins and 7 days based on response of the patient to the cold air blast. RESULTS / CONCLUSION Diode lasers can be used as an effective treatment option for desensitization. Key Words Hypersensitivity Tubular Occlusion, Tubule Permeability