Desensitized toothpaste

Types of desensitized toothpastes

A desensitized toothpaste is a special kind of toothpaste for sensitive teeth. It makes the nerves in teeth less responsive to stimuli like hot or cold. These toothpastes can be grouped into two main types: those that block nerve signals and those that focus on repairing tooth surfaces. Here are the different types of desensitized toothpaste:

• Nerve-Blocking Toothpaste

  Nerve-blocking toothpaste works by blocking the nerves in the teeth from sending pain signals. They contain ingredients that affect the nerves and reduce their sensitivity to stimuli like heat and cold. Common nerve-blocking ingredients are potassium citrate, potassium nitrate, and sodium fluoride. These substances numb the nerves, so they don't react strongly to temperature changes or other things that make the teeth feel uncomfortable.

• Repairing Toothpaste

  Repairing toothpaste helps sensitive teeth by "repairing" the natural defense barriers around the tooth. They have ingredients that help rebuild and strengthen the protective enamel layer at the top of the tooth and the gum tissue at the neck. This lessens exposure of the tooth roots and creates a better shield against triggers. Repairing toothpaste may contain compounds that stimulate the remineralization of enamel and gum tissue to enhance overall tooth sensitivity.

• Fluoride Toothpaste

  Fluoride toothpaste is a common type of toothpaste that can help sensitive teeth. It contains fluoride, which is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and can help reduce sensitivity. While not primarily focused on sensitivity, fluoride toothpaste works by reinforcing the outer layer of the tooth, making it more resistant to external stimuli. Using fluoride toothpaste alongside other sensitivity-targeted ingredients can provide additional protection against sensitive teeth.

• Low Abrasive Toothpaste

  Low abrasive toothpaste is gentler on the teeth. It cleans without wearing down the tooth enamel. This kind of toothpaste is useful for people with sensitive teeth. The low abrasives remove plaque and stains, but they are not as harsh as regular toothpaste. Low abrasive toothpaste may help reduce tooth sensitivity and protect the enamel.

• Multi-Action Toothpaste

  Multi-action toothpaste does many things to promote oral health. It targets multiple issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. This type of toothpaste is helpful for people with sensitive teeth. The multi-action toothpaste contains ingredients that relieve tooth sensitivity and strengthen enamel. It has fluoride to fight cavities and compounds that soothe sensitive gums.

How to choose desensitized toothpastes

When it comes to choosing a toothpaste for sensitive teeth, buyers should consider the following factors;

• ADA Seal of Acceptance

  The American Dental Association (ADA) seal is an important indicator that the toothpaste meets quality and safety standards. Toothpaste with this seal ensures that the claims on the packaging are true. Look for this seal when choosing a sensitive toothpaste.

• Potassium Nitrate Content

  Potassium Nitrate is a proven element that relieves tooth sensitivity. It works by blocking nerve signals in the teeth. Check for toothpaste that lists potassium nitrate as an ingredient; this will provide relief for sensitive teeth.

• Fluoride Content

  Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and prevents cavities. Sensitivity can increase if there are cavities in the mouth. Hence, choose a sensitive toothpaste that contains fluoride. It can be in the form of sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, or stannous fluoride.

• Desensitizing Effect

  Ensure the toothpaste provides a long-lasting desensitizing effect. It should seal the dentinal tubules to prevent exposure to stimuli. Look for toothpaste that lists this effect on the packaging.

• Additional Benefits

  Choose a sensitive toothpaste that offers more benefits. They may include whitening, freshening breath, or plaque control. These additional benefits will improve oral health.

• Taste and Texture

  Everyone has a unique taste. Choose a toothpaste that has a pleasant taste and texture. This will encourage regular brushing for optimum benefits.

• Brand Reputation

  Choose a sensitive toothpaste from a reputable brand. These brands have a solid reputation for producing quality and safe dental products.

• Price

  Consider the cost of the toothpaste. Choose a sensitive toothpaste that fits the budget. However, do not compromise quality for cost. Always remember that the mouth is an important part of the body.

How to use desensitized toothpastes

Most people brush their teeth with a specific technique that ensures the toothpaste does its job. Below is a simple step-by-step process for using desensitized toothpaste.

• Step 1

  Pick the right brush

  Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush for brushing teeth. Doing this will ensure that the brush doesn't wear down the enamel and gum tissue.

• Step 2

  Apply toothpaste

  Put a pea-sized amount of desensitized toothpaste on the brush. When using gel toothpaste, one should rinse the brush first so the paste sticks to it.

• Step 3

  Start brushing

  Brush each part of the tooth surface in a circular motion. People tend to brush back and forth, but this only wears down the enamel. Instead, one should brush in circles to clean the teeth without damaging them.

• Step 4

  Focus on the front teeth

  The front teeth are usually the hardest part to clean. One should hold the brush vertically to clean the front teeth. When cleaning the front teeth, one should ensure that the toothpaste covers the gum line to prevent bleeding or soreness.

• Step 5

  Back of the mouth

  People often ignore the back of their mouths when brushing because it's hard to see. However, this section of the mouth also needs to be cleaned. One should brush the back of the upper and lower teeth by placing the brush vertically and making sweeping motions. This will ensure the back of the teeth is also cleaned.

• Step 6

  Brush the tongue

  Many people forget to brush their tongues, which can cause bad breath and bacteria buildup. One should gently brush the tongue with a little toothpaste to clean it.

• Step 7

  Clean the whole mouth

  To finish brushing the teeth, make several sweeping motions across the molars, premolars, canines, and incisors. This will ensure no spots are missed during brushing.

• Step 8

  Spit, rinse, and repeat

  When finished brushing, one should spit all the toothpaste out and rinse the mouth with water. They can repeat the process with a second brushstroke to ensure the entire mouth is cleaned. It's important not to swallow any toothpaste, as doing so can cause stomach upset.

Product Safety

Desensitized toothpaste is a safe product that helps people with sensitive teeth. However, just like any other product, it has to be used within specific limits. Below are some of the safety precautions to take when using desensitized toothpaste.

• Read the label

  Always read the label before using any desensitized toothpaste. The label will provide specific instructions on how to use the product and the precautions to take.

• Consult a professional

  Before using desensitized toothpaste, one should consult a doctor, especially if they have underlying dental issues. A dentist will determine the right treatment for the dental problem.

• Don't swallow

  Desensitized toothpaste is not meant to be swallowed. Doing so can cause serious stomach problems. Children should be supervised when brushing their teeth, as they might swallow the toothpaste.

• Keep away from sunlight

  Desensitized toothpaste should be kept away from sunlight, as the sun can damage the paste and reduce its effectiveness. It's also important to store the toothpaste in a dry place because moisture can also damage it.

• Check the expiry date

  Desensitized toothpaste has an expiry date that must be checked before use. Using an expired toothpaste can cause irritation and inflammation. Always ensure the packaging is sealed before purchasing desensitized toothpaste.

Functions, features and design of desensitized toothpastes

Manufacturers design desensitized toothpaste to alleviate sensitive teeth. It helps people with sensitive teeth. The paste has a mild flavor and is white or slightly colored. It has a thick and creamy texture. The packaging is similar to regular toothpaste, with a flip-top or screw cap tube.

This toothpaste functions by blocking pain signals from the tooth's nerves. It forms a protective coating over the nerves. Some pastes seal the tubules in the teeth so the nerves don't get stimuli. Others numb the nerves to reduce the pain. The paste may also work by increasing the threshold of the stimuli that trigger the pain.

The main feature of desensitized toothpaste is that it has low abrasiveness. It won't wear down the tooth enamel. It won't cause more sensitivity. It has compounds that reduce sensitivity. They may include strontium, arginine, or potassium. The toothpaste may have fluoride to strengthen the enamel. It also has low RDA values. RDA means relative data for abrasiveness.

Q&A

Q1: How many times should a sensitive toothpaste be used?

A1: It is recommended to use it twice daily, in the morning and before going to bed at night. This ensures that the teeth get protection from sensitivity and promote overall dental health.

Q2: How long does it take for desensitizing toothpaste to work?

A2: The time taken to relieve tooth sensitivity differs depending on the individual and the level of sensitivity. Most people experience relief within a few days of regular use. For some, it may take up to two weeks to achieve complete relief from sensitivity.

Q3: Can desensitized toothpaste whiten teeth?

A3: Some sensitive toothpastes have whitening ingredients and can aid in whitening the teeth. Toothpaste for whitening teeth works to remove surface stains and may help change the color of the teeth over time.

Q4: Can desensitized toothpaste be used with mouthwash?

A4: It is advisable to wait some time after brushing the teeth with desensitized toothpaste before using mouthwash. This is because some mouthwashes contain fluoride, and using them immediately after brushing may wash away the fluoride, thus reducing the benefit to the teeth.

Q5: What are the side effects of desensitized toothpaste?

A5: Some users may experience side effects like mouth ulcers, gum swelling, and changes in taste. If these effects persist, it is advisable to stop using the toothpaste and consult a dentist.