In-situ precipitation of microcrystals through phytotherapeutic therapy

Objective: To evaluate the in-vitro effect of phytotherapeutic therapy on dentin permeability as an alternative treatment for dentinal hypersensitivity. Methods: Ten human dentin discs (3mm/each) were obtained from sound teeth extracted for orthodontic reasons. Smear layer was created by rubbing 400-grit abrasive sandpaper on each disc for 30sec. Specimens were rinsed in bidistilled water for 30sec and dried for 12hrs in a thermostatic heater at 25˚C; permeability values (3/sample) were taken using the permeabilimeter described by Pashley and Depew (1986). Each disc was then treated with 0.5M EDTA pH 7.3 for 5min and rinsed again with bidistilled water for 30sec; Lp permeability measurements were taken (3/sample). Each specimen was treated for 3min with (pea-size amount) extracts of rhubarb and spinach containing gel (Aboca S.p.a., Italy); rinsing procedures were then performed for 30sec and permeability measurements re- taken. Subsequently, the same discs were treated with 0.02M citric acid for 90sec, rinsed for 30sec with bidistilled water; permeability measurements were then taken (3 measures/sample). This procedure was repeated three times a day for 7 continuous days. During the intervals, samples were kept in bidisitilled water at 37˚C. After all samples were fixed, dehydrated and gold sputtered, morphological analysis under SEM (Jeol 4500, Jeol Japan) followed. Results: After 7 continuous days of regular gel application, dentinal permeability values were drastically reduced to zero. Conclusion: According to this in-vitro study, the experimental rhubarb- spinach based product appears to be a viable alternative for the treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity. Morphological analysis also shows the formation of rather complex crystals which completely sealed the dentinal tubules.