Treatment of cervical sensitivity with a root sealant

PURPOSE: To assess a novel root sealant for cervical sensitivity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Clinical assessments, impressions and modified USPHS criteria (n = 24) were carried out at baseline, 3, 6 and 19 months. Plaque samplings were performed at baseline and after 3 and 19 months. RESULTS: At 19 months, 20 patients completed the clinical trial. There was a significant reduction for the sensitivity scores. The log10 of total colony-forming units (cfu + 1) from overlying plaque significantly reduced. The percentage of mutans streptococci reduced after 3 months (P <0.01) and yeasts also reduced after 19 months (P <0.01). The mean overall wear (+/- SD) (microm) on the sealant was 78.8 +/- 21.3 at 3 months; 95.4 +/- 7.3 after 6 months and 136.5 +/- 9.8 after 19 months. In conclusion, this sealant was capable of reducing sensitivity. Further wear on the cervical surface was prevented as the mean sealant thickness was 65.3 +/- 3.3 after 19 months.