Three randomized studies of dentine hypersensitivity reduction after short-term SnF2 toothpaste use

Aim To evaluate effects of a 0.454% stannous fluoride test toothpaste on dentine hypersensitivity (DH) applied by fingertip, then 3 days' brushing, versus a sodium monofluorophosphate-based control. Materials and Methods In three randomized clinical studies, DH was assessed using evaporative (Schiff scale) and tactile (Yeaple probe) stimuli. Participants applied toothpaste to two sensitive teeth by fingertip (60 s each); DH was re-assessed, prior to brushing. Test treatment participants brushed their sensitive teeth, with all participants then brushing all teeth for >= 60 s, twice daily for 3 days. DH was re-assessed. Data were analysed by study and then pooled. Results In two studies, test treatment significantly reduced DH versus control treatment after fingertip application and 3 days' brushing (both measures). In one study, both treatments significantly reduced DH without between-treatment differences. Mean Schiff differences (95% confidence intervals) for fingertip/3d were as follows: Study 1: -0.09 (-0.280, 0.092)/ -0.18 (-0.442, 0.072); Study 2: -0.72 (-0.839, -0.610)/ -1.02 (-1.150, -0.882); and Study 3: -0.26 (-0.387, -0.123)/ -0.92 (-1.055, -0.793). Pooled analysis indicated test treatment significantly reduced DH versus control (both timepoints, both measures). Toothpastes were generally well-tolerated. Conclusion Studies indicated that single, fingertip application of a SnF2 toothpaste reduced DH versus a control. DH relief increased over 3 days.