Clinical Assessment of Bonding Agent Versus Fluoride Varnish in Dental Hypersensitivity

Abstract

Background: Dental hypersensitivity is a prevalent condition characterized by transient, sharp pain from exposed dentin, significantly impacting quality of life. Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness, patient satisfaction, and safety profile of a dental bonding agent versus fluoride varnish in the management of dental hypersensitivity among adult patients. Methods: A double-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 66 adults (n = 66; 33 per group) aged 18–60 years with at least one non-carious, hypersensitive anterior or premolar tooth. Exclusion criteria included caries, defective restorations, recent desensitizing treatment, and medical contraindications. Participants were randomized to receive either a light-cured dental bonding agent or a 5% sodium fluoride varnish, each applied once following standard protocols. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at baseline, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks. Secondary outcomes included patient satisfaction (Likert scale) and adverse effects. Ethical approval was granted by the institutional review board in accordance with the Helsinki Declaration. Data were analyzed using SPSS with independent t-tests and repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in VAS scores in 4 weeks (p < 0.001). The bonding agent group demonstrated greater improvement (VAS reduction: 6.91 to 1.76) compared to fluoride varnish (6.97 to 3.18), with a larger effect size. Patient satisfaction was higher in the bonding agent group (63.6% “very satisfied” vs. 36.4%, p = 0.03), and fewer adverse events were reported (9.1% vs. 18.2%). Conclusion: Dental bonding agents provide more rapid, pronounced, and well-tolerated relief from dental hypersensitivity than fluoride varnish, supporting their use as a first-line treatment for improved patient outcomes in dental practice.