New method of treatment for dentin hypersensitivity by precipitation of calcium phosphate in situ.

The hydrodynamic theory is generally accepted as an explanation of hypersensitive dentin and suggests that occlusion of exposed dentinal tubules should result in a reduction of hypersensitivity. We tried to block tubules by in situ precipitation of insoluble calcium phosphate. Calcium phosphate crystals precipitated in situ on patent dentin surfaces and formed in the tubules immediately upon serial application of sodium phosphate and calcium chloride solutions, thus occluding the tubules. The size of crystals, their degree of coverage, and the thickness of the precipitate depended on the method of application and concentration of the solutions. The application of 5% disodium phosphate solution followed by rubbing with 10% calcium chloride solution resulted in immediate relief from dental hypersensitivity in 84% of patients treated.