Verification of optimal conditions for fluoride iontophoresis for dentinal hypersensitivity and its applicability to root coverage procedure

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of fluoride iontophoresis in treating dentin hypersensitivity and its toxicity to human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPdLF). Methods: The fluoride ion uptake in dentin slices was measured at different application times. Furthermore, HPdLF were cultured on dentin slices treated with fluoride ion to assess cytotoxicity. Additionally, a prospective interventional study evaluated pain reduction in patients. Results: A 10-minute fluoride iontophoresis significantly increased uptake compared to shorter application times and did not show toxicity to HPdLF survival rates. The 10-minute fluoride iontophoresis significantly reduced pain and was more effective than the conventional 3-minute treatment, suggesting its usefulness as a preoperative treatment for dentin hypersensitivity before root coverage procedures.