Use of 38% silver diamine fluoride for treating hypersensitive teeth in older adults

A recent study found that applying 38% silver diamine fluoride (SDF) solution topically on the exposed root surface of hypersensitive teeth in older adults had a desensitizing effect. This study was published in the Journal of Dentistry.

This double-blind, randomized clinical trial included 139 healthy adults with dentine hypersensitivity. They were first tested for hypersensitivity using a blast of compressed cold air using a three-in-one syringe. At baseline visit, the participants gave a sensitivity score (SS) in a visual analogue scale ranging from 0 to 10 (no pain to agonizing pain). Thereafter, they were administered 38% SDF or 5% potassium nitrate solution (control) as an intervention on the hypersensitive root surface. Post the intervention, the compressed cold air test and SS score were taken again at 4 and 8 weeks. Reduction in SS at 8-week before intervention with reference to the SS baseline, was the primary outcome.

It was evident from the results that 38% SDF solution reduced hypersensitivity on the exposed root surface of older adults. Thus, it may be more effective than 5% potassium nitrate solution and may help reduce hypersensitivity on the exposed root surface of older adults.