EFFECT OF FLUORIDE VARNISH AND POTASSIUM NITRATE ON DENTAL HYPERSENSITIVITY

Abstract

Objective:

To compare the effectiveness of professionally applied fluoride varnish and potassium nitrate toothpaste in reducing dentinal hypersensitivity over a six-month period.

Methods:

A randomized, assessor-blinded clinical trial was conducted with 150 adults presenting with at least two hypersensitive teeth. Participants were allocated equally into a Fluoride Varnish group and a Potassium Nitrate group. Sensitivity was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Schiff Cold Air Sensitivity Scale, and tactile threshold at baseline, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA.

Results:

Of the 150 enrolled participants, 128 completed the study. Both treatments significantly reduced dentinal hypersensitivity over time (p < 0.001). Fluoride varnish demonstrated significantly greater improvement at 1 week and 1 month (p < 0.05), providing faster initial relief compared to potassium nitrate. By 3 and 6 months, no significant difference was observed between the groups. Both interventions improved tactile thresholds similarly. Patient satisfaction at six months was higher in the Fluoride Varnish group. Adverse events were minimal and comparable between treatments.

Conclusion:

Fluoride varnish offers superior early reduction of dentinal hypersensitivity, making it an effective chairside option for rapid relief. Over the long term, both fluoride varnish and potassium nitrate toothpaste show comparable efficacy. These findings support a combined clinical strategy in which fluoride varnish initiates rapid desensitization followed by potassium nitrate for continued maintenance