Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of three home application desensitizers（ Sensodyne, Colgate and Xinxiaogan） on the occlusion of the dentinal tubules in vitro. Methods Dentin discs were used to prepare the dentin hypersensitivity model. Specimens were then subjected to brush experiment using different desensitizers with the common dentifrice serving as a control. Morphology of specimens in different groups before and after treatment were observed under scanning electron microscope（SEM）, meanwhile, active ingredients on the dentine surface were analyzed by energy disperse spectroscopy（EDS）. The degree of occlusion of the dentinal tubules was quantified using an image analyser. Results Distinct surface coatings were observed by SEM in vertical and horizontal plane of dentin. The use of all desensitizers occluded tubules more than no brushing and brushing with ordinary dentifrice（P＜0.05）. There was no significant difference between all the experimental groups（P＞0.05）. In the clogging matter, EDS revealed the presence of active ingredients of F. Conclusion The tested dentifrices seem effective for desensitization by tubule occlusion.
