Choosing the Right Desensitizing Agent
The underlying causes and extent of dentin hypersensitivity may vary from person to person. Similarly, the effects of desensitizing agents may differ among individuals. Choosing the right desensitizing agent requires a thorough clinical evaluation of each individual's unique oral condition. Treating the underlying cause of sensitivity is essential for long-term relief.
In some people, dentin exposure results from enamel damage, leading to cervical sensitivity. In others, gum recession and cementum damage from periodontal disease lead to sensitivity. Before selecting an over-the-counter product, it is ideal to consult a dentist to find out what works best for your oral condition and needs.
Dental sensitivity causes sudden pain when eating hot or cold foods. It results from tooth structure damage, providing external stimuli with open access to the underlying soft tissues and tooth nerves. The management of dentin hypersensitivity involves using desensitizing agents for in-office treatments and designing over-the-counter products such as toothpaste and mouthwash. Getting examined by a dentist is ideal to determine the right solution for instant and lasting relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
What desensitizer do dentists use?
Dentists use materials containing desensitizing agents, such as fluorides, oxalates, composites, bonding resins, and adhesives, to help relieve dentin hypersensitivity. They are also used with treatments like tooth bleaching and restorations to prevent temporary tooth sensitivity. They work by desensitizing the tooth nerves or dentinal tubule occlusion to reduce dentin permeability.
What is an example of a desensitizer?
Desensitisers used at home include toothpaste, mouthwash, or chewing gum that contain desensitizing agents. Some toothpaste contains potassium nitrate, which desensitises the tooth nerves. Compounds such as arginine, fluoride, and phosphates are ingredients in various products that relieve dentin sensitivity.
What is the desensitizing agent in toothpaste?
Many proprietary toothpastes that are available in India use one or more desensitizing agents to relieve teeth sensitivity. These include potassium nitrate, arginine, calcium carbonate, calcium phosphate, and fluoride compounds such as sodium fluoride and stannous fluoride.
Is Colgate a desensitizing toothpaste?
Colgate’s Sensitive Plus is a desensitizing toothpaste that provides instant relief from sensitivity from the first use. It contains Pro-Argin technology that seals the dentin tubules with a plug of arginine, calcium phosphate, and calcium carbonate. Arginine builds a calcium-rich layer over the exposed tooth structure, promotes enamel repair, prevents dental caries, and provides long-term relief with regular use.