Synergistic Effects of NovaMin Toothpaste and Diode Laser in Managing Dentin Hypersensitivity

Background Dentin hypersensitivity (DH) is a prevalent dental condition causing sharp, transient pain upon exposure to stimuli like cold air or brushing. It affects 10–30% of adults, significantly impacting the quality of life. Current treatments include desensitizing agents (e.g., 5% NovaMin toothpaste) and diode lasers, but their comparative and combined efficacy remains unclear. Aim This study aimed to compare the efficacy of 5% NovaMin toothpaste (Sensodyne Repair & Protect®), diode laser therapy, and their combined application in reducing DH over 2 months using tactile and air-blast sensitivity tests measured using VAS and Schiff Sensitivity Scale (SSS) to determine the most effective intervention for the long run. Methodology: A randomized clinical trial was conducted on 180 hypersensitive sites which were divided equally into: Group A: NovaMin toothpaste; Group B: Diode laser irradiation (980 nm, 2 W, 20 sec/site repeated twice); and Group C: Combined NovaMin + laser. Dentin hypersensitivity was assessed at baseline, 15 days, 1 month, and 2 months. Results All groups showed significant pain reduction (p < 0.001) from baseline. At 15 days, Groups A and B had comparable VAS scores, while Group C outperformed both (p < 0.05). By 2 months, Group C maintained superior efficacy in both VAS and SSS (p < 0.01). Conclusion The combined NovaMin-laser approach provided the most effective and sustained DH relief, suggesting synergistic benefits for immediate and long-term management. Thus, clinicians should consider this dual therapy for optimal patient outcomes.