Potential of Functionalised tri-Calcium Phosphate in the relief of dentine hypersensitivity

Introduction The currently accepted definition of dentine hypersensitivity states that ‘Dentine hypersensitivity is characterized by short, sharp pain arising from exposed dentin in response to stimuli, typically thermal, evaporative, tactile, osmotic, or chemical, and which cannot be ascribed to any other form of dental defect or disease.’ The hydrodynamic theory is the most widely demonstrated and accepted pathophysiological theory of dentine hypersensitivity. The theorem proposes that dentine hypersensitivity is a result of movement of fluid within the dentine tubules. Most pain-producing stimuli cause movement of dentinal tubule fluid, the most common being cold and evaporative stimuli. This results in a pressure change across the dentin which activates intra-dental nociceptive nerve fibers, via a mechanoreceptor response, to cause pain. Currently available dentine desensitisers can be divided into two categories by their modus operandi: one is to interrupt the neural response to pain stimuli; the other is to occlude open tubules to block the hydrodynamic mechanism. Clinpro Tooth Creme is a white paste that contains 950 ppm fluoride ion (similar to regular toothpaste) and a functionalised tri-calcium phosphate ingredient Aims 1) Investigate the efficacy of Functionalised tri-Calcium Phosphate in relieving dentine hypersensitivity 2) Assess the efficacy of Functionalised tri-Calcium Phosphate in relieving dentine hypersensitivity in comparison to an alternative desensitising agent 3) Compare the efficacy of Functionalised tri-Calcium Phosphate in relieving dentine hypersensitivity when applied topically and with brushing vs application during brushing only