Abstract

Background: This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of dentin hypersensitivity and to compare the effectiveness of treatment using casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate fluoride (CPP–ACPF) and diode laser therapy.

Methods: A split-mouth, paired design was conducted on 63 patients (126 teeth) aged 18 years and older. Each patient presented with two non-adjacent teeth affected by dentin hypersensitivity, matched for tooth type, lesion location, and sensitivity severity (VAS ≥ 4). One tooth was treated with CPP–ACPF (MI Paste Plus), while the contralateral tooth received diode laser therapy (GaAlAs, 810nm).

Results: Dentin hypersensitivity was predominantly observed in the cervical region of the teeth and was most frequently associated with premolars, with dental abrasion identified as the most common etiological factor. Cold stimuli and horizontal toothbrushing habits were the most frequently associated triggering and risk factors, respectively. CPP–ACPF demonstrated superior immediate desensitizing effects following treatment; however, its effectiveness gradually decreased over time. In contrast, diode laser therapy showed more sustained efficacy at the 3- and 6-month follow-up periods (p < 0.05). Both treatment modalities resulted in a significant improvement in dentin hypersensitivity–related quality of life (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Both CPP–ACPF and diode laser therapy are effective in the management of dentin hypersensitivity and contribute to significant improvements in patients’ quality of life. CPP–ACPF is a suitable option for rapid symptom relief with a simple, minimally equipment-dependent procedure, whereas diode laser therapy provides more durable outcomes at 3–6 months, particularly for teeth with severe hypersensitivity and cervical lesions, making it preferable when long-term symptom control is the primary treatment goal.