Dentinal hypersensitivity is a prevalent clinical condition characterized by short, sharp pain in response to thermal, tactile, osmotic, or chemical stimuli, commonly affecting exposed cervical dentin. Its etiological factors include gingival recession, enamel erosion, abrasion, and periodontal therapy, which lead to dentin exposure and open dentinal tubules. Conventional desensitizing treatments—such as topical agents and iontophoresis—offer only temporary or inconsistent relief and require repeated application.

Laser therapy has emerged as a promising, minimally invasive modality in managing dentinal hypersensitivity by targeting underlying mechanisms through tubule occlusion and neural desensitization. Among laser systems, Erbium lasers (Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG) demonstrate high efficacy in ablating the smear layer and inducing melting and re-solidification of dentin, thus sealing tubules effectively. Diode lasers, operating at different wavelengths (from 450 nm to 980 nm), act predominantly through photobiomodulation and neural modulation, reducing pain perception without altering dentin morphology.

Both laser types offer significant advantages over conventional methods, including immediate and long-lasting relief, improved patient compliance, and the potential for adjunctive periodontal and restorative procedures. Clinical trials have shown superior outcomes when lasers are used alone or in combination with desensitizing agents.

This lecture will explore the biological rationale, mechanisms of action, clinical applications, and evidence-based outcomes of Erbium and Diode lasers in treating dentinal hypersensitivity, emphasizing their role in modern, patient-centred care.

Objectives:

1. Explain the underlying mechanisms by which Erbium and Diode laser systems alleviate dentinal hypersensitivity, including tubule occlusion and neural modulation.

2. Compare the clinical efficacy, application protocols, and advantages of different laser wavelengths in managing dentinal hypersensitivity.

3. Evaluate recent clinical evidence supporting laser-based therapies, both alone and in combination with desensitizing agents, for long-term symptom relief.