by What Causes Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is caused by a few different factors that can damage the protective outer layer of the tooth called enamel. The most common causes include acid erosion from foods and drinks, teeth grinding or clenching, gum recession, and cracked or chipped teeth. When the enamel is worn away it exposes the inner dentin layer which contains millions of tiny tubes called dentin tubules. The fluid movement within these tubules is what triggers the nerve endings and causes that sharp pain sensation when eating or drinking something hot, cold, sweet or acidic.
Active Ingredients to Fight Sensitivity
Leading Sensitive Toothpaste brands contain desensitizing agents that can effectively block the dentin tubules and provide lasting relief. Some of the most effective ingredients include:
– strontium chloride – This works by coating the opening of the dentin tubules and forming a physical barrier to block nerve signals. Clinical studies show it provides fast and long-lasting relief from sensitivity.
– potassium nitrate – As a calcium channel blocker, it interrupts the pain messages sent by exposed nerves under the enamel. Multiple clinical trials demonstrate its ability to reduce sensitivity within two weeks of use.
– arginine & calcium carbonate – This dual system helps plug micro leaks in the dentin tubules through a calcium buildup within the tubes. Arginine aids remineralization to naturally strengthen enamel over time.
Beyond the active ingredients, many sensitive brands also contain fluoride to further promote enamel remineralization. The fluorides help repair tiny cracks, restore the tooth’s surface, and make it more resistant to future pain and erosion.
Proven Effective Through Research
Scientific research provides strong evidence that leading sensitivity toothpastes can significantly reduce sensitivity within a short period of use. In randomized controlled clinical studies:
– After 2 weeks, subjects reported a 30-50% reduction in pain levels after using a toothpaste with strontium chloride compared to a regular non-desensitizing paste.
– After 4 weeks, potassium nitrate had plugged over 70% of open dentin tubules, nearly eliminating subjects’ sensitivity to cold stimuli.
– Within 2 months, calcium carbonate/arginine formulations reduced dentin tubule permeability by up to 95%, effectively shielding the nerve endings long-term.
– At the 6 month mark, sensitivity levels had dropped by as much as 75% compared to baseline measurements before using a fluoride toothpaste.
Gentle Whitening for Healthier Teeth and Gums
While providing relief, many sensitivity toothpastes also contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide – gentle whitening agents that break down to release oxygen. This helps remove surface stains without harsh abrasives. The oxygen also kills the bacteria that cause plaque, gingivitis and bad breath. Regular sensitivity toothpaste use whitens teeth 2-4 shades on average with no sensitivity during or after the process.
Global Reach for Complete Oral Care
Sensitivity is a problem faced by over 750 million people around the world according to international dental associations. Large consumer brands have developed global sensitivity toothpaste lines with formulations tailored to each region and culture. Popular products like Sensodyne, Sensodyne Pronamel, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief and Crest Sensitive are now available internationally in over 120 countries.
These reach consumers from North America to Africa to Asia in their native languages with ingredients tested and approved for global safety and efficacy. The worldwide success and dental community endorsement of major sensitivity toothpaste brands show they provide a complete oral care solution on a global scale.
Long-Term oral hygiene is key
While sensitivity toothpastes can deliver prompt relief and healthy teeth, regular twice daily brushing is still important. Continued plugging and strengthening of enamel helps maintain sensitivity protection. Flossing also removes plaque from between teeth that brushing misses. Seeing a dentist regularly is ideal for professional cleanings every 6 months and checkups. This combination of self-care and prevention ensures bright smiles and pain-free oral health that lasts.
In Summary, say goodbye to tooth sensitivity with the help of sensitive toothpaste, a specialized dental product designed to alleviate discomfort caused by exposed dentin or enamel erosion. By incorporating ingredients like potassium nitrate or fluoride, sensitive toothpaste works to block pain signals from reaching the nerve endings in the teeth, providing long-lasting relief from sensitivity to hot, cold, or acidic stimuli. With continued use, sensitivity toothpaste can also help strengthen enamel, reduce the risk of cavities, and promote healthier teeth and gums.
