Hygiene Atlas

Atlas · Plate XVI · Supportive Treatment Services · 03

Desensitization and whitening

Dentin hypersensitivity is short, sharp pain from exposed dentin, diagnosed by ruling out caries and cracks. Potassium nitrate calms the nerve over 2-4 weeks, while stannous fluoride, arginine, oxalates and varnishes block tubules. In whitening, 10% carbamide peroxide yields about 3.5% hydrogen peroxide; sensitivity and gingival irritation are the usual side effects, and restorations do not lighten.

High-yield facts · 7

  1. Dentin hypersensitivity: short, sharp pain from exposed dentin, triggered by cold, air, touch or sweets; diagnose by ruling out caries, cracks and leaks.T2
  2. Potassium nitrate 5% (toothpaste) depolarizes nerve fibers; it takes about 2-4 weeks of use.T2
  3. Tubule blockers: stannous fluoride, arginine with calcium carbonate, oxalates, strontium, fluoride varnish, resin sealers, GLUMA (glutaraldehyde/HEMA).T2
  4. Abrasive toothpaste plus aggressive brushing can worsen sensitivity; recommend a soft brush and low-abrasion paste.T2
  5. 10% carbamide peroxide breaks down into about 3.5% hydrogen peroxide plus urea. In-office products use about 25-40% hydrogen peroxide.T2
  6. Whitening does not change the color of restorations; replace them after whitening if a match is needed.T2
  7. The most common whitening side effects are tooth sensitivity and gingival irritation.T2

Facts are written in our own words; each tag links to its source. Values marked "sources vary" differ between references, so check the one your program uses.