Clincal Evaluation of the Sedative Effect of HEMA Solution on the Hypersensitivity of Dentin

: The sedative effect of the dentin primer, 35% hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) solution, on dentin hypersensitivity was clinically evaluated. Exposed root surfaces of teeth were cleaned with neutralized 0.5 mol/L EDTA and treated with 35% HEMA solution followed by the application of a commercial dentin bonding agent. The extent of sedation was estimated by comparison of the responses before and after treatment to irritation by a cold water spray, compressed air blast and scratching with an explorer. The degree of the response to these irritations was decreased significantly upon the combined application of HEMA and commercially available dentin bonding agents though it was still ineffective in nearly 30% of the 48 cases tested.