Comparative scanning electron microscope analysis of diode laser and desensitizing toothpastes for evaluation of efficacy of dentinal tubular occlusion

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The present study aims to evaluate the efficacy of diode laser alone and in combination with desensitizing toothpastes in occluding dentinal tubules (both partially occluded and completely occluded tubules) by scanning electron microscope (SEM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: -formulated toothpaste followed by laser irradiation. After treatment, quantitative analysis of occluded dentinal tubules was done by SEM analysis. RESULTS: The mean values of percentages of total occlusion of dentinal tubules in Groups I, II, III, IV, and V were 92.73% ± 1.38, 90.67% ± 1.86, 96.57% ± 0.64, 97.3% ± 0.68, and 96.9% ± 6.08, respectively. Addition of diode laser (Groups III, IV, and V) yielded a significant occlusion of the dentinal tubules when compared to desensitizing toothpastes alone (Groups I and II). CONCLUSION: < 0.05). Among the five groups, NovaMin + diode laser (Group IV) showed the highest percentage of occluded dentinal tubules.