Laser Therapy for Dentin Hypersensitivity: A Critical Appraisal.

Autor: Benetti, Ana Raquel, Franco, Eduardo Batista, Franco, Eric Jacomino, Pereira, José Carlos
Předmět:
Zdroj: Journal of Oral Laser Applications; 2004, Vol. 4 Issue 4, p271-278, 8p, 2 Charts
Abstrakt: Sensitive teeth are a rather common clinical problem for which several treatment options have been tested. Laser has been investigated as one of the possible therapies to minimize pain by either obliterating dentinal tubules or promoting dental analgesia. The purpose of this paper was to review laser effects on hypersensitive dentin and to critically discuss most relevant aspects related to laser therapy in sensitive teeth. Although several studies have detected beneficial effects after laser irradiation of hypersensitive dentin, too many unclear variables make this therapy questionable. Few studies conducted controlled double-blinded randomized trials, despite the fact that hypersensitivity clinical trials are particularly influenced by placebo effects, even when traditional techniques are used. Additionally, few follow-ups have been performed to prove long-term effectiveness of laser therapy. Diagnosis of etiological factors and modification of habits are rarely commented as important factors related to therapy success. Indeed, few papers compared laser irradiation effects to conventional treatments. Since available evidence is controversial, laser irradiation of hypersensitive teeth should be viewed with caution. Dental professionals should look carefully at the evidence upon which they base their clinical decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Supplemental Index