PRG Barrier Coat's Giomer technology produces immediate and sustained hypersensitivity relief.
Tooth sensitivity is a common problem, with a wide range of causes and solutions, according to our team of Dental Product Shopper evaluators. One of the hygienists who evaluated Shofu's PRG Barrier Coat told DPS that hypersensitivity may be the No. 1 issue for patients in her office. Many others agreed, including a New Hampshire dentist who said, "Many patients have root sensitivity, and it is a big complaint in my office."
Shofu developed PRG Barrier Coat to provide immediate and prolonged relief to the large numbers of patients who suffer from severe hypersensitivity. The light-cured, resin-based varnish is bioactive and demonstrates instant hypersensitivity relief and desensitization for up to 6 months after application. PRG Barrier Coat also enhances a patient's overall intraoral health with its state-of-the-art Giomer technology.
"Patients blame you for tooth sensitivity. Having a product that really works is a great practice builder," Dr. Jean Furuyama said. She found Shofu's light-cured, bioactive varnish to be more effective for sustained hypersensitivity relief than any other product she has tried, adding that she has used quite a few over the years. "Something easy to use and fast is great," she noted. "Fellow dentists, you have to try this stuff. It really works."
Delivery, Handling, and Ease of Use
PRG Barrier Coat is easy to mix, can be applied quickly with a brush, and is light-cured to speed up desensitization. Because it is self-adhesive, the material can be applied to flat or slanted surfaces. "This product offers 1-step application, whereas the product I currently use is 2 steps," shared Florida hygienist Brenda Archambault. Dr. Tanya Brown said the PRG Barrier Coat is easy to use compared to other similar products, and hygienist Brenda Buergi said the easy application process was one of her favorite features.
"We [previously] did not have a varnish option," noted dentist Melissa Taylor Burton, who practices in Franklin, TN. "I like that it gave us an option to treat sensitivity in the chair quickly." Feedback varied on the product's handling and viscosity. While one evaluator commented that it flowed very nicely on the margin, another found that it clumped a little bit on the brush.
Effectiveness in Relieving Sensitivity
"[PRG Barrier Coat] stops sensitivity immediately," said Buergi, a Wisconsin hygienist who rated all features of the material as excellent. Ideal for patients with decalcified enamel and for those suffering from newly erupted molars, gingival recession, or temporary sensitivity due to whitening, PRG Barrier Coat seals and protects exposed dentinal tubules to relieve and prevent pain. According to Shofu, the varnish blocks and protects from external irritants for up to 6 months after application.
"We had a patient with really bad sensitivity. One fast, simple application completely relieved her sensitivity," Dr. Furuyama noted. Dr. Jack Griffin, who was pleased with the cost of the material, said PRG Barrier Coat provided effective and immediate relief. "[It is] probably the most dependable office desensitizer we have used," he said. "We've had several patients say sensitivity to touch and cold was certainly better."
Hygienists Melanie Walker and Buergi used the varnish on themselves and shared their feedback with DPS. "I could drink cold water right after application without any sensitivity," Walker said. Buergi, who reported 2 years of sensitivity in her No. 13DB and No. 15MB aspects, noted, "Self-application was easy. [There was] no adverse taste, and [I had] immediate relief that has lasted for the 4 weeks since treatment."
Versatility: Range of Indications
Along with treating hypersensitivity, PRG Barrier Coat can be used for a broad range of applications, including hard-to-brush areas (surrounding orthodontic brackets, clasps, and crowded teeth). Giomer technology releases fluoride, inhibits plaque formation, and neutralizes acid, making the varnish ideal for areas at high risk for caries, such as exposed root surfaces, newly erupted molars, and white spots.
According to Dr. Griffin, PRG Barrier Coat is perhaps the best product in the root sensitivity product class, with many other potential uses. "A lot of patients are either brushing too hard at the gum line or grinding, and this product is great for protecting those areas," dental assistant Alessa Allen added. Walker suggested that PRG Barrier Coat could help determine if the tooth just has root sensitivity or if it is a possible endo tooth. "This product is extremely versatile and can virtually be utilized in any location in the oral cavity," dental assistant Brittany Ashenfelter said.
Overall Satisfaction
"I feel confident it is a superior product compared to others on the market," shared Marianne Baran, DDS, who rated her overall satisfaction as excellent. All of the evaluators said they would definitely or probably recommend the varnish. "Many patients suffer from tooth sensitivity," said Archambault, "and this product offers extended relief."
Dr. Griffin, who rated his overall satisfaction as excellent, summarized, "It's a valuable addition to [our] practice."
