Associative Protocol for Dentin Hypersensitivity Using Nd:YAG Laser and Desensitizing Agent in Teeth with Molar-Incisor Hypomineralization

Combined Effects of Glutaraldehyde-based Desensitizer and Nd: YAG Laser on Dentinal Tubules Occlusion

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of Nd:YAG laser, glutaraldehyde-based desensitizer (GD), or their combination on occluding dentinal tubules.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty dentin samples were obtained from non-carious human third molars and randomly divided into five groups (n = 10): (1) Control group treated with 37% phosphoric acid, (2) GD group, (3) Nd:YAG laser group (1064 nm, 100 µs, 10 Hz, 300 µm fiber, 1 W power, 100 mJ energy, and 85 J/cm2 energy density), (4) GD followed by Nd:YAG laser group, and (5) Nd:YAG laser followed by GD group. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to capture five images from each sample for analysis of dentinal tubules using Image J software. SEM/EDX elemental analysis was performed to determine the main mineral contents. Data analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test for statistical comparisons.

RESULTS

Laser and combination groups showed a significant decrease in dentinal tubule counts compared with the control and GD groups (p < 0.0001). There were no significant differences in open dentinal tubule counts between the control and GD groups, as well as between the laser and combination groups. However, significant differences were observed in the total area, average size of the tubules, and percentage area between the control group and the treatment groups (GD, laser, GD + laser, laser + GD). No significant difference was found in the Ca/P ratio between the tested groups.

CONCLUSION

The use of Nd:YAG laser alone or in combination with GD was more effective in occluding dentinal tubules compared to GD alone.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

This study has shown that Nd:YAG laser alone and in combination with GD has superior dentinal tubule occlusion in vitro. Its clinical use in the treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity may overcome the drawback of conventional treatment approaches for dentin hypersensitivity needing repeated applications to achieve continuous relief from pain since acidic diet and toothbrushing result in the continuing elimination of precipitates and surface coatings. How to cite this article: Alzarooni AH, El-Damanhoury HM, Aravind SS, et al. Combined Effects of Glutaraldehyde-based Desensitizer and Nd: YAG Laser on Dentinal Tubules Occlusion. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(1):52-57.

Minimally interventive restorative care of teeth with molar incisor hypomineralization and open apex-A 24-month longitudinal study

AIM

To assess the efficacy of treatment using a minimally invasive approach (selective removal of carious tissue, restoration and preventive strategies) in immature permanent molars with MIH.

DESIGN

A total of 281 patients, aged 6-8 years, with carious lesions (ICDAS 5-6), severe MIH, and incomplete root formation (one tooth/patient) were included. After clinical and radiographic examinations, selective carious tissue removal was performed, and the teeth received interim restoration for 6 months and were then restored with composite resin. Clinical and radiographic follow-up was undertaken, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. A protocol of preventive oral care measures was established and repeated at each follow-up, including diet counselling, oral hygiene instruction, dental plaque control, and topical application of fluoride varnish containing CPP-ACP. All clinical procedures and evaluations were done by a single operator.

RESULTS

Clinical and radiographic success was observed 24 months after treatment in 96.8% of the cases. Failures were due to enamel fracture at restoration margins, resulting in pulpitis and absence of apex closure.

CONCLUSION

Selective removal of carious tissue, interim, and subsequently definitive restoration, combined with home and professional preventive measures, maintained marginal integrity of restorations in immature permanent molars with severe MIH, confirmed by pulp vitality and occurrence of apexogenesis.