Control of dentin/root sensitivity during non-surgical and surgical periodontal treatment

Aim To determine the efficacy of a desensitizing regimen compared to a control in preventing the occurrence and/or alleviating dentin/root sensitivity (DRS) following non‐surgical (NSPT) and surgical periodontal treatment (SPT). Methods Seventy‐four chronic‐periodontitis patients (CPP) were randomized into a test group (n = 38) using an in‐office prophylaxis paste and a toothpaste at home both containing 8% arginine and calcium carbonate (Pro‐Argin™ Technology) or into a control group (n = 36) receiving a fluoride‐free prophylaxis paste and a fluoride toothpaste. The examiner applied the assigned paste onto selected teeth for 3 s following NSPT and for 60 s before flap closure. Patients brushed with the assigned toothpaste twice daily throughout the study. DRS to air stimulus was assessed by the Schiff scale (0–3) and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS: 0–100 mm) six times over 17 weeks. Results In the test group, VAS scores significantly decreased at 8, 11 and 17 weeks from baseline (p ≤ 0.003) and Schiff scores at 8 and 11 weeks from baseline (p ≤ 0.014). The control group exhibited significant increases in VAS and Schiff during the study period (p ≤ 0.006). Marked inter‐group differences were noted at all time points (p