Occlusion effects of bioactive glass and hydroxyapatite on dentinal tubules: a systematic review

Objective Bioactive glass and hydroxyapatite are biocompatible materials used as an adjunct to various dental materials. The present study aimed to evaluate the occlusion effects of bioactive glasses and hydroxyapatite on dental tubules. Materials and methods We searched the PubMed/Medline, Embase, and Web of Science databases for the relevant records. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed by an accepted quality assessment tool. Results From the electronic databases, 372 articles were retrieved. After evaluating the records, 35 in vitro studies were included. The studies revealed a low risk of bias. The primary outcomes from bioactive glass studies demonstrated the potential efficacy of both bioactive glass and hydroxyapatite in dentin tubule occlusion compared to the control. Conclusion The current systematic review showed that bioactive glass and hydroxyapatite could effectively occlude the dentinal tubules. Thus, desensitizing agents containing bioactive glass and hydroxyapatite can be used to manage dentin hypersensitivity (DH). However, long-term follow-up clinical trials are required in the future before definitive recommendations can be made. Clinical relevance This work achieved a satisfactorily systematic review for assessing desensitizing agents containing bioactive glass and hydroxyapatite in dentine hypersensitivity treatments recommended for clinical practice and research.