How does desensitising toothpaste help overall oral hygiene?

Posted by Ananya Singh on February 2nd, 2022

Sensitivity is identified as a sharp pang felt in the nerves of your teeth when the dentin is exposed to external stimuli, thereby causing discomfort. The enamel is the topmost layer of the teeth. It contains the dentin that covers tubules linking to the sensory nerves. When these tubules come in contact with hot or cold temperatures, it causes discomfort identified as dentin hypersensitivity. Thus, using desensitising toothpaste can help. This kind of toothpaste relieves the discomfort in the teeth by addressing the symptoms related to the condition. Read on to understand how this paste helps sensitivity on teeth.

The effectiveness of ingredients

The efficiency of desensitising toothpaste depends on the ingredients used in it. Several studies have revealed that components like stannous fluoride and potassium have proven effective for sensitivity on teeth. Potassium nitrate is used as an active agent that blocks sharp pangs from transmitting to the brain. On the other hand, fluoride is added to strengthen the enamel and create a protective layer that shields the dentinal tubules. Similarly, strontium chloride is used in these pastes to clog the openings of the tubules. This ensures that hot or cold stimuli do not contact the nerves. However, it is advisable to choose a dentist-recommended toothpaste as a high amount of these ingredients can lead to severe side effects.

The effectiveness of the process

Desensitising toothpaste contains additives that desensitise the exposed nerves and protect them from external stimuli. Prolonged use of this toothpaste creates a protective layer over the worn-out enamel. This helps in preventing further damage and restores the enamel over time. It also shields the hollow dentinal tubules from coming in direct contact with acidic food and beverages or extreme temperatures. A good toothpaste for sensitive teeth is also made without harmful ingredients such as sugar and abrasives. This ensures that the exposed dentin is not subjected to higher discomfort due to abrasive ingredients.

The effectiveness of practicing good oral hygiene

Using a desensitising toothpaste for sensitive teeth is beneficial only when used in the correct method. Thus, when you use a desensitising toothpaste, it is essential to use a pea-sized amount and brush your teeth twice a day for best results. Similarly, switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush can also go a long way in protecting the enamel and preventing further damage. Avoiding acidic food and beverages like oranges, aerated drinks, and sugar-laced food can also help in protecting the enamel. Use of alcohol-based mouthwashes can also contribute to the erosion of enamel. Thus, using mouthwashes without chemicals and low alcohol content will also protect your teeth. Similarly, chemical formulas used in whitening gels and pastes can also harm the teeth to a great extent. Thus, reducing or eliminating such gels will prevent tooth sensitivity.

The effectiveness of dentist visits

While desensitising toothpastes address the symptoms related to sensitivity on teeth, it still has its restrictions. These toothpastes eventually strengthen the enamel; however, if your sensitivity stems from cracked teeth or infected gums, it’s best to visit your dentist. When cavities are left untreated for a long duration, it can cause infection in the roots. Thus, when you visit your dentist, you’re likely to get a root canal or tooth extraction based on the intensity of the condition. Similarly, discomfort caused due to gum diseases can only be treated by a dentist.