The Effectiveness of Desensitizing Agents for Treating Dentin Hypersensitivity: A Meta-Analysis

Authors

  • Divya Batra Reader, National Dental College and Hospital, Derabassi 140507, Punjab, India.
  • Niladri Maiti School of Dentistry, Central Asian University, Uzbekistan, Pin Code 111221
  • Philip Pradeep Associate Professor, Department of Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, SP2, Bandar Saujana Putra 42610, Selangor, Malaysia
  • Nimeshika Ramachandruni Professor, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Mallareddy Dental College for women, Mallareddy vishwavidyapeeth, Hyderabad 500032, Telangana, India
  • Ashtha Arya Professor, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, SGT Dental College, Hospital & Research Institute, SGT University, Gurugram 122505, Haryana, India
  • Pratik Agrawal Reader, Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences, KIIT Deemed to be University, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Bhubaneswar, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v25i10.86623

Keywords:

dentin sensitivity; desensitizing agents; meta-analysis; randomized controlled trials; tooth hypersensitivity

Abstract

Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) affects 10–30% of adults, causing sharp pain from exposed dentin. Despite various treatments, efficacy comparisons remain unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of desensitizing agents for DH. Following PRISMA guidelines, 30 RCTs were analyzed. Databases included PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane. Outcomes were pain reduction (VAS, Schiff scale) and tubule occlusion (SEM). Random-effects models calculated pooled effect sizes. Bioactive materials (e.g., bioactive glass) showed the strongest effects (40–60% pain reduction), followed by arginine (50–70%). Lasers and SDF provided rapid relief but had limitations (cost, side effects). At-home treatments (e.g., stannous fluoride) offered moderate efficacy (30–50%). Heterogeneity was low (I² = 22.43%), and publication bias was minimal. Desensitizing agents are effective for DH, with bioactive materials and combination therapies yielding optimal results. Clinicians should tailor treatments based on patient needs and agent availability.

Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25. Supplementary Issue 2026, Page : S63-S77

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Published

2026-01-06

How to Cite

Batra, D., Maiti, N., Pradeep, P., Ramachandruni, N., Arya, A., & Agrawal, P. (2026). The Effectiveness of Desensitizing Agents for Treating Dentin Hypersensitivity: A Meta-Analysis. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science, 25(10), S63-S77. https://doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v25i10.86623

Issue

Vol: 25. Supplementary issue 2026

Section

Review Article

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Divya Batra, Niladri Maiti, Philip Pradeep, Nimeshika Ramachandruni, Ashtha Arya, Pratik Agrawal

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