A clinical study of the effect of calcium sodium phosphosilicate on dentin hypersensitivity

OBJECTIVE NovaMin is technically described as amorphous sodium calcium phosphosilicate, and has been shown in laboratory studies to rapidly occlude dentin tubules through the deposition of particles that react to form a protective layer, similar to bone mineral, on the dentin surface. NovaMin was originally developed as a bone regenerative material and is highly biocompatible. The objective of this pilot study was to compare the safety and effectiveness of two prototype formulations containing 2.5% and 7.5% w/w NovaMin to a placebo dentifrice for the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity. METHODS This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Sixty-six subjects with a confirmed diagnosis of dentin hypersensitivity were randomized to one of three treatments: 2.5% NovaMin, 7.5% NovaMin, or placebo. Two standard test stimuli, tactile and thermal air, were applied to sensitive cervical dentin surfaces. Subjects recorded the intensity of sensitivity in response to each stimulus on a visual analog scale at baseline, and after two, four, and eight weeks of twice-daily product use. Oral soft tissues were examined and spontaneous reports of adverse experiences were also monitored. RESULTS Comparison of the mean change from baseline among the three treatment groups indicated a meaningful reduction in sensitivity scores in the 7.5% group that was significant compared to reductions observed in the placebo control group at all time points. CONCLUSION The results of this study are supportive of the incorporation of NovaMin into products intended for the reduction of dentin hypersensitivity.