Comparative Efficacy of Iontophoresis with APF Gel and Iontophoresis with Commercially Available Toothpastes (Elsenz® and Perfora) in the Management of Dentinal Hypersensitivity - A 3 months Follow-Up randomized Controlled Trial

<ns3:p> Objectives This investigation assessed and comparedthree widely used desensitizing products— Elsenz <ns3:sup>®</ns3:sup> toothpaste, Perfora Sensitive Toothpaste, and Fluorotop Acidulated Phosphate Fluoride (APF) gel—each paired with iontophoresis, to determine their effectiveness in alleviating dentinal hypersensitivity among adults. Materials and Methods A randomized, parallel-group clinical trial involved 27 adults aged 18–65 years, each presenting with dentinal hypersensitivity and meeting specific inclusion criteria. Participants were allocated into three treatment arms, each receiving either Elsenz, Perfora, or APF gel in conjunction with iontophoresis. Pain responses to tactile and evaporative stimuli were quantified using a visual analogue scale prior to intervention, immediately after, and at scheduled follow-ups over three months. Retreatment was offered if needed, while all participants used identical oral hygiene tools and practices throughout the study. Results All treatment groups demonstrated meaningful reductions in sensitivity. Perfora Sensitive Toothpaste combined with iontophoresis produced the swiftest and most pronounced decline in reported pain levels, frequently resolving hypersensitivity after the initial use. Elsenz <ns3:sup>®</ns3:sup> toothpaste required repeated applications for optimal benefit, while APF gel resulted in less enduring relief compared to the alternatives. Statistical assessments confirmed significant differences favoring the Perfora group for durable symptom management. Conclusion The findings indicate that, among the products tested, Perfora Sensitive Toothpaste delivered with iontophoresis provided the most effective and lasting reduction in dentinal hypersensitivity. This outcome may be linked to its formulation and mode of application, positioning it as a strong candidate for early intervention in hypersensitivity cases. Larger-scale studies with extended observation are encouraged to confirm these promising results. The trial was prospectively registered in the Clinical Trials Registry-India (CTRI) under the registration number CTRI/2025/09/095193. The study was conducted from [03/10/2025 to 3/1/2026]. The full trial record is available at: Trial registration: CTRI/2025/09/095193. </ns3:p>