Effectiveness of arginine-containing toothpastes in treating dentine hypersensitivity: A systematic review
Volume 41, Issue 6, June 2013, Pages 483–492
Abstract
Objectives
To
evaluate by way of a systematic review the effectiveness of
arginine-containing desensitising toothpastes in comparison to control
agents in reducing dentine hypersensitivity.
Data sources
Electronic
databases were searched including: Cochrane Central Register of
Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS (30/03/2012).
Reference lists of eligible studies and systematic reviews were
cross-checked in an attempt to identify additional studies. Strategies
to identify grey literature were employed.
Study selection inclusion criteria
Controlled
Clinical Trials (CCTs) and Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs)
comparing arginine-containing desensitising toothpastes to
non-arginine-containing control toothpastes.
Two
review authors independently screened the titles and abstracts of
studies identified. Data collection forms were completed for included
studies.
Outcomes
Changes in sensitivity to tactile and air-blast stimuli. A subjective assessment of sensitivity was also sought.
Conclusion
Data
identified indicates a potential role for arginine-containing
toothpastes in managing dentine hypersensitivity. However, this
conclusion is based on small sample sizes and the studies identified did
not follow patients up in the medium to long term. The authors
recommend that there is a need for well-designed RCTs to be conducted
prior to any definitive recommendations being made.
Clinical significance
Dentine
hypersensitivity is a common condition. Its multi-factorial aetiology
has led to several treatment modalities being advocated. The continued
introduction of new desensitising agents suggests that no product has
yet proven ultimately successful. Arginine-containing toothpastes have
recently been introduced, this article systematically reviews the
evidence relating to their effectiveness.
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