Types and principle of action of Sensodyne toothpaste

• causes of hypersensitivity of human teeth,
• best toothpaste for sensitive teeth,
• analysis of paste compositions, rating 2022.

Toothpaste can act not only as a means for cleaning teeth, but also, thanks to the inclusion of a number of active ingredients, help reduce tooth hypersensitivity, relieve inflammation in the gums, and also help strengthen tooth enamel. With increased tooth sensitivity, pain usually occurs in response to thermal and mechanical stimuli - cold, hot, when touching the teeth with a toothbrush, and sometimes even from sweets.

In most cases, this problem can be solved at home, using special toothpastes for sensitive teeth, as well as by applying gels containing one of the fluoride compounds to the necks of teeth. Pastes and gels from different manufacturers, due to their different compositions, differ in their effectiveness, and in this article we will analyze the composition of the most popular products for relieving hypersensitivity of tooth enamel.

Causes of hypersensitivity development –

First of all, this problem is associated with the thinning of the enamel layer in the area of ​​​​the necks of the teeth, or with the exposure of the roots of the teeth and the thinning of the “cement” layer located on their surface.
As a result, a deeper layer of tooth tissue is exposed - dentin, which is located immediately under the enamel and cement. Dentin microscopically consists of dentinal tubes in which fluid circulates. If the dentin is not covered with enamel and cement on top, then thermal and other irritants can sharply increase the speed of fluid flow through the dentinal tubules, which ultimately leads to irritation of the nerve endings in the dental pulp and the occurrence of pain. The trigger for the development of pain (in the presence of dentin exposure) can be the consumption of acidic foods and drinks, the use of whitening toothpastes, etc.

Examples of pastes for daily use

There are many toothpastes that can solve the problem of sensitivity. When choosing, you should pay attention to the following parameters.

• Active ingredient (fluorine, calcium, hydroxyapatite, potassium);
• its concentration;
• additives and impurities.

The best way to avoid oral diseases remains regular prevention. Below are examples of pastes for daily use and their main active ingredients, which have proven to be the most effective in combating sensitivity.

Daily oral hygiene using strengthening pastes is the best prevention of tooth enamel sensitivity at home.

How to choose a toothpaste for sensitive teeth -

Toothpastes for relieving tooth sensitivity (hypersthesia) have specific characteristics. Firstly, toothpaste for sensitive teeth usually has a fairly low abrasiveness within the RDA range of 25 to 35 (RDA - abrasiveness index). For example, for ordinary therapeutic and prophylactic toothpastes the RDA index is 75, and for whitening pastes it is usually 100-120.

The second important point to pay attention to is the active components. Different manufacturers use ingredients that are different from each other, which have different mechanisms for reducing tooth sensitivity, and as a result, have different effectiveness and different speed of onset of effect. Based on the mechanism of action, the following groups of components can be distinguished...

Active components in toothpastes for sensitive teeth -

• Potassium nitrate, potassium chloride - these components block the transmission of nerve impulses.
  The transmission of nerve impulses is based on the exchange of potassium ions (located inside nerve cells) with sodium ions located outside the nerve. By increasing the concentration of potassium ions around the nerve endings, we disrupt this exchange, which leads to the absence of pain in the teeth - in response to thermal and mechanical stimuli. The advantage of these components is that the effect of their use develops very quickly. However, the result will last as long as you use them. Thus, potassium nitrate and chloride can quickly relieve pain, but they do not eliminate the very cause of hyperesthesia.

• Fluorides, strontium chloride, zinc citrate, hydroxyapatite - these components affect precisely the cause of the development of dental hypersensitivity - the accelerated movement of fluid in the dentinal tubules, which leads to irritation of the nerve endings.
  Fluoride compounds (sodium fluoride, aminofluoride, monofluorophosphate), strontium chloride, zinc citrate, hydroxyapatite - all of them clog the dentinal tubules, preventing the movement of fluid in them. In addition, strontium chloride also promotes the deposition of replacement dentin and the compaction of its structure, which also helps reduce hypersensitivity. However, the downside of all these components is that the effect from their use develops more slowly than from the use of potassium nitrate or potassium chloride.

• Arginine and calcium carbonate combination - a combination of Arginine (an amino acid) and calcium carbonate in toothpaste - is also very effective in treating dental hypersensitivity.
  Arginine facilitates the deposition of a layer of calcium carbonate on the surface of the teeth, which in turn stimulates the deposition of phosphates on the surface of exposed dentin and in the dentinal tubules, contributing to their clogging and reducing the movement of fluid in them. However, although it reduces sensitivity well, it does not solve the problem of demineralization of enamel and dentin. It should be noted here that the layer of calcium carbonate with arginine will be inactive, and calcium from this layer will not penetrate into the hard tissues of the teeth. This distinguishes arginine carbonate pastes from pastes with fluorides, after the use of which an active layer of calcium fluoride (CaF2) is created on the tooth surface. In addition to the fact that CaF2 also clogs the dentinal tubules on the surface of exposed dentin, calcium and fluoride from this layer are able to penetrate into the hard tissues of the teeth, strengthening them.

Conclusions -

Precisely because some components are capable of providing an immediate effect, while others (although their effect develops slowly, they eliminate precisely the cause of pain) - most toothpastes for sensitivity are made with a combined composition. Where potassium nitrate quickly relieves pain, and fluorides, hydroxyapatite, strontium chloride, or a combination of arginine and calcium carbonate clog exposed dentinal tubules.

However, there are also effective monocomponent products for use at home. Such products contain a very high concentration, usually of only one component, for example, potassium nitrate or sodium fluoride. In this way, they resemble professional means for reducing sensitivity that dentists use in their work. Examples of such gels are PRESIDENT Sensitive Plus and Colgate® Duraphat. How they can help you - read below.

Active substances in pastes

To quickly relieve pain, use toothpastes and gels with potassium

, which penetrates the dentinal tubules and anesthetizes the nerve.
And to strengthen the enamel and seal the dentinal tubules, you will need products containing fluoride
,
calcium
or
hydroxyapatite
.

Pastes with fluoride

Fluoride plays an important role for the body and, in particular, teeth.

• Makes bones strong and hard.
• Supports immunity.
• Prevents caries from developing.

The effectiveness of fluoride in preventing caries has been proven by many studies. Choose toothpastes with a fluoride concentration of at least 1000 ppm (preventative pastes) and from 1350 to 1500 ppm (medicinal pastes). The most popular fluoride-containing products are “Ftorlak”, “Fluocal”, “Diplen Denta F” films and Keystone gels. You can learn more about the benefits of fluoride in our article.

Pastes with calcium

An alternative strengthening element to fluoride is calcium. It provides teeth with strength and hardness. Some of the most effective products with it are dental gels GC Tooth Mousse, GC MI Paste Plus and gel for sensitive teeth ROCS Medical Sensitive.

Tooth gel GC Tooth Mousse Strawberry

Tooth gel GC MI Paste Plus Multifruit

Gel for sensitive teeth ROCS (ROCS) Medical Sensitive

Pastes with hydroxyapatite

Hydroxyapatite is a mineral that is the basis of bones and teeth (96% of enamel consists of it). It looks like a white powder. In dentistry, hydroxyapatite is included in dental products as an element that remineralizes and strengthens enamel.

Hydroxyapatite provides:

• decreased enamel sensitivity;
• replenishment of mineral deficiency;
• prevention of caries and its treatment at the white spot stage.

The absolute safety of hydroxyapatate is its main advantage.
The substance can be used in hygiene products even for children and pregnant women. ApaCare Repair restoring dental gel, Biorepair sensitivity reliever, Innova and Biorepair rinses and pastes will help solve the problem of sensitivity.

ApaCare Repair Restoring tooth gel

Biorepair drug for reducing sensitivity and restoring enamel

Suspension Splat Innova Liquid Enamel

INNOVA Intensive strengthening of hypersensitive teeth

Biorepair Mouthwash 500 ml

Toothpaste Biorepair Denti Sensibili PLUS

Toothbrushes for sensitive teeth –

In cases where the touch of the toothbrush bristles to the necks of the teeth causes pain and discomfort, it is recommended to use special toothbrushes with soft bristles when brushing your teeth. These brushes are marked “Soft”. They also differ from ordinary toothbrushes in that each bristle has a rounded or very thin atraumatic tip.

Price for toothbrushes for sensitive teeth –

• SENSODYNE Sensitive toothbrush – from 160 rubles,
• LACALUT Sensitive toothbrush – from 190 rubles.

Important: Use this brush only in cases where pain occurs when touching your teeth with a regular toothbrush. They cannot be used on an ongoing basis, because... Brushes with soft bristles remove microbial plaque from teeth much worse than brushes with medium hardness, and therefore, with prolonged use, plaque and tartar may accumulate on the teeth.

Sensodyne Instant effect, toothpaste for sensitive teeth 75ml

A country

Great Britain, Slovakia, United Kingdom
Country of origin may vary depending on product batch. Please check with the operator for detailed information when confirming your order.

Description

Sensodyne is the #1 recommended* brand by dentists for sensitive teeth. Sensodyne Instant Effect toothpaste helps reduce tooth sensitivity 60 seconds** after application, provides instant and lasting pain relief from hypersensitive teeth, and also creates an insulating layer on the surface of dentin and inside the dentinal tubules. When brushing your teeth 2 times a day, Sensodyne Instant Effect toothpaste also protects against caries due to its fluoride content. * “Study of recommendations by dentists of various brands in the oral care segment”, Institute of Marketing Research GFK-Rus, November 2017 – January 2022 ** Due to the content of tin fluoride. Seong, J., Crete, J. E., Sufi, F., and West, N., “Short-term effectiveness of toothpaste for dental hypersensitivity,” Journal of Dental Research, San Francisco, CA. USA, Abstract 215; Study Report 207212, West N., “Clinical Study of the Effectiveness of Toothpaste in Reducing Dental Sensitivity,” GSK, GSK internal data.

Compound

Glycerin, PEG-8, Hydrated Silica, Pentasodium Triphosphate, Aroma, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Titanium Dioxide, Carbomer, Stannous Fluoride, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Fluoride, Sodium Saccharin, Limonene. Mass fraction of fluoride 1450 ppm.

Product description

Toothpaste.

pharmachologic effect

Sensodyne Instant Effect toothpaste helps reduce tooth sensitivity 60 seconds after application, provides instant and lasting pain relief from hypersensitive teeth, and also creates an insulating layer on the surface of dentin and inside the dentinal tubules. When brushing your teeth 2 times a day, Sensodyne Instant Effect toothpaste also protects against caries due to its fluoride content.

Indications for use

Daily dental and oral care.

Contraindications

Individual intolerance to components.

Carefully

If irritation is observed during use of the product, use of the paste should be discontinued. Stop using the product and contact your dentist if: Tooth sensitivity persists or worsens. Sensitive teeth may be a sign of a serious medical condition that requires immediate treatment from a dentist. Tooth pain/sensitivity persists after 4 weeks of using the product. Gingivitis, inflammation or redness of the gums, persists for more than 2 weeks. You experience tender or swollen gums, see pus draining from below the gum line, teeth falling out, or spaces between teeth becoming larger. The above symptoms can develop with periodontitis, a serious form of gum disease.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

There are no contraindications to the use of toothpaste during pregnancy and lactation.

Directions for use and doses

Apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste to a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush your teeth twice a day for 1 minute, but no more than three times, or as recommended by your dentist (attending physician). Try to brush all sensitive areas of your teeth more thoroughly. Do not swallow. Spit.

Side effect

Allergic reactions.

Release form

Paste in a tube of 75 ml, 1 tube in a cardboard package.

Storage conditions

Store in a dry place, out of reach of children, at a temperature not exceeding 30 C.

Best before date

2 years. Do not use after the expiration date.

Sensodyne for children

Children's teeth require more attention than adults. They are very susceptible to fluoride, so this component should be absent in children's toothpaste. Sensodyne with fluoride can only be used from 12 years of age and after consultation with a doctor. However, the Sensodyne line includes products that can be used without consulting a dentist due to their absolute safety:

• Classic.
• ProNamel for Children.
• Gum Care.

Sensodyne toothpaste with unique NovaMin technology is the best oral care product. It differs from analogues in its complex effect, instantaneous effect, quality of treatment and long-term preservation of the achieved result.

Composition and principle of action of Sensodyne toothpastes

The main components included in Sensodyne toothpastes are:

• Sodium fluoride.
• Potassium nitrate.
• Fluorine.

Sodium fluoride is the main component of the paste. The component has an antibacterial effect: it destroys bacteria in the oral cavity. In addition, sodium fluoride heals wounds and other damage to the oral mucosa, carefully restoring its integrity.

Potassium nitrate blocks pain caused by increased sensitivity of tooth enamel. It seals the dentinal tubules and prevents the penetration of irritants to the nerve endings located in the dental pulp. This component is fast-acting: it instantly reduces sensitivity.

The fluoride component of the paste is aimed at protecting the enamel. Gently enveloping the tooth, it prevents the appearance of caries. In addition, fluoride regulates the level of acidity in the mouth.

In addition to sodium fluoride, potassium nitrate and fluorine, Sensodyne paste contains plant extracts. Their action is aimed at comprehensive improvement of the oral cavity - protecting teeth and strengthening gums. Plant extracts freshen breath and help alleviate painful sensations. Excipients are aimed at enhancing the effect of all components that make up the paste.

Features and Benefits of Sensodyne

A distinctive feature of Sensodyne toothpaste is the inclusion in its composition of bioactive glass containing sodium calcium phosphosilicate, produced using the latest NovaMin technology. As a result, a protective film is formed on the surface of the teeth, similar in structure to natural tooth enamel. The exposed dentinal tubules are sealed, and irritants stop penetrating into the pulp, where the sensitive nerve endings are located - the pain goes away.

Another feature of Sensodyne products is that it not only suppresses pain, but treats the cause of its occurrence. Among its other advantages are:

• Efficiency of application.
• Instant action.
• Gentle cleansing.
• Protection of the mucous membrane of the gums and oral cavity.
• Affordable price.

Effect of Sensodyne toothpaste

Sensodyne helps to achieve quick results in cleaning, restoring teeth and reducing their sensitivity. It promotes:

• Fresh breath.
• Destroying harmful bacteria.
• Prevention of caries.
• Regulating acidity in the mouth.
• Reduced tooth sensitivity.

The action of Sensodyne paste is not aimed at temporarily relieving hyperesthesia - increased tooth sensitivity - but at treating it.

Hyperesthesia goes through 3 stages of development, each of which differs in the list of irritants affecting the nerve endings of the teeth. Stages of sensitivity:

• Exposure to cold and hot drinks and foods.
• Reaction to salt, acids, sugar.
• Sensitivity to any type of irritant.

The causes of hyperesthesia are different: poor nutrition, tooth enamel whitening, professional cleaning, tooth decay. Thanks to the special composition, Sensodyne is characterized by a rapid effect on nerve endings and the elimination of any type of tooth sensitivity.