Efficacy of Lasers, Propolis-Based Agent, and Sham for Dentine Hypersensitivity

This study was conducted as a prospective, randomized, parallel-arm, evaluator-blinded, sham-controlled clinical trial to evaluate and compare the clinical efficacy of four different treatment modalities for dentine hypersensitivity over a 6-month follow-up period.

A total of 140 patients who met the eligibility criteria were enrolled and randomly allocated into four equal groups (n=35 per group) using a block randomization method with a 1:1:1:1 allocation ratio. The intervention groups were assigned as follows:

Group 1 received Nd:YAG laser application.

Group 2 received Diode laser application.

Group 3 received a topical application of a herbal propolis-based dentin barrier agent.

Group 4 received a sham (placebo) application to simulate the treatment experience without delivering any active laser or therapeutic agent benefits.

Clinical evaluations were performed at baseline, immediately post-treatment, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. The primary outcome was the change in pain intensity measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) following a controlled air blast stimulus from baseline to 6 months. Secondary outcomes included changes in the Schiff Cold Air Sensitivity Scale, tactile sensitivity scores, patient satisfaction levels, the documentation of any adverse events, and the need for additional treatment during the 6-month period. To ensure objectivity, all clinical assessments and statistical analyses were performed by researchers who were fully blinded to the treatment allocations.