Role of potassium nitrate in dentine hypersensitivity

Dentinal hypersensitivity is generally reported when a patient experience a sharp pain caused by one of several different stimuli. The pain response varies significantly from one person to another. The effectiveness of potassium nitrate in managing dentinal hypersensitivity is previously confirmed. Brushing with potassium nitrate dentifrice or applying potassium nitrate–fluoride gel in custom-fitted trays before whitening can reduce the sensitivity in a majority of patients. As the data shows that use of Potassium nitrate is not toxic if used in permissible limit. Using an Over the Counter (OTC) toothpaste product in the whitening tray to treat sensitivity allows patients to obtain the material when needed and for as long as needed at a reasonable cost. This review provides up to date information about the mechanism of potassium nitrate action and their application in dental sciences.