Having sensitive teeth is among the conditions that most people consider as the most frustrating to deal with, because they hit just the right balance of pain and insignificance. The sharp jolt of pain from drinking anything cold is certainly a concern. As sensitive teeth do not cause or are indicative of any serious dental damage, there have been few efforts to address the condition long term.
The most reliable products that manufacturers have been able to come up with are desensitizing toothpastes, and though they all look the same to people, there is actually a bit of variety to them. Learning these different kinds and the way these work will help patients with sensitive teeth choose the product that is best for their unique conditions.
The Marketers Toothpaste
The most common desensitising toothpaste is the potassium base, or potassium nitrate toothpastes. These have a potassium base. Manufacturers prefer this type to market the most because it can work despite acid erosion, and other abrasive events that happen to teeth every day.
The way potassium bases work is that the potassium ions depolarise nerve endings that become exposed during the course of a patient’s diet. This essentially stops the nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. The only downside to potassium bases is because of their durability against external factors, it takes longer for patients to feel its maximum effect.
Going Au Natural
The next type of desensitising toothpaste is a calcium base, also known as Pro-Argin Technology. Most dentists recommend this type, because it uses specific ratios of arginine and calcium to mimic the remineralising properties of saliva to plug open pores in the dentin.
Patients will feel relief more instantaneously, as it emulates the natural process of the mouth. The big disadvantage to using this kind of toothpaste, though, is that patients are limited to using it at times when they do not expect to eat or drink. Calcium bases are vulnerable to acid erosion and abrasive chewing.
Choosing the right type of toothpaste is an important decision, so consult your dentist regarding the kind of dental products that suit for your teeth. Contact us, so we may answer any questions you might have on dental health.
Bromley Dental Practice
Zaki graduated from University of Bristol 1999 and has practiced in Kent since then. He is passionate about dentistry and providing the highest standard of care for patients, at the same time, he keeps himself at the cutting edge of modern dental techniques.
