Effect of Acmella Oleracea (Jambu) Bioadhesive Film on Post-Bleaching Dental Sensitivity: A Randomised Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate an experimental bioadhesive film containing Acmella oleracea (jambu) extract in reducing post-bleaching dental sensitivity associated with 35% hydrogen peroxide (HP), as well as its influence on colour change and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). MATERIALS AND METHODS: 72 volunteers were randomised into 3 groups: GCP (placebo control), GKF (5% potassium nitrate + 2% sodium fluoride), and GAO (bioadhesive film of Acmella oleracea). Before bleaching, the corresponding desensitising product was applied to each group for 10 minutes. Bleaching was performed using 35% HP in 3 sessions, with a 7-day interval between them. Post-bleaching dental sensitivity was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) over a 21-day follow-up period. Colour (ΔE00) and lightness (L) were measured at baseline (T0) and 7 days after the third session (Tf). The impact on OHRQoL was evaluated using the DHEQ-15 questionnaire. Non-parametric tests (Friedman, Wilcoxon, Kruskal-Wallis with post hoc) and ANOVA were applied (α = 5%), with effect sizes calculated. RESULTS: Significant intergroup differences in post-bleaching dental sensitivity were observed (P < .001), with a very large effect size (ε² = 0.85). The GAO group showed the lowest sensitivity levels, while the GCP group presented the highest. Intragroup analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in sensitivity over time (P < .001; Kendall's W = 0.95). All groups showed effective bleaching, with no significant differences in ΔE₀₀ (P = .508) or L values (T0: P = .655; Tf: P = .421). Significant improvements in OHRQoL were observed in the GKF and GAO groups (P < .0001), with intergroup differences at the final time point favouring these treatments. CONCLUSIONS: The bioadhesive film containing Acmella oleracea extract reduced post-bleaching dental sensitivity without compromising the esthetic outcome. Improvements in oral health-related quality of life were observed following treatment. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: A bioadhesive film with Acmella oleracea (jambu) extract effectively reduced post-bleaching dental sensitivity after 35% hydrogen peroxide application.