The sharp, sudden jolt of pain that comes from biting into ice cream or sipping hot coffee is known as dentinal hypersensitivity, a common dental complaint. This discomfort occurs when the protective layers of the tooth, the enamel and cementum, are worn away, exposing the underlying dentin. Desensitizing gel is a focused treatment designed to address this pain directly at its source. It offers a non-invasive method for managing the discomfort caused by external thermal, chemical, or tactile stimuli.
Defining Desensitizing Gel
Desensitizing gel is a viscous, topically applied dental product formulated specifically to alleviate the short, sharp pain associated with sensitive teeth. Its function is to reduce the pain response that occurs when the dentin is exposed to the oral environment. The gel is designed to be held against the tooth surface for a specified duration, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate the dentin.
These products are available in different concentrations and forms. Over-the-counter gels are typically used at home, often applied with custom trays or a brush, and are popular for managing temporary sensitivity following teeth whitening. Stronger, prescription-grade gels or varnishes are often applied directly by a dental professional for more severe or localized sensitivity. The gel’s purpose is to shield the exposed inner structures of the tooth from external triggers.
Mechanisms of Pain Reduction
The pain of dentinal hypersensitivity is explained by the hydrodynamic theory. This theory proposes that external stimuli cause rapid fluid movement within microscopic channels in the dentin called dentinal tubules. This movement stimulates nerve endings in the pulp, which the brain interprets as a sharp pain sensation. Desensitizing gels combat this process through two distinct pathways: tubule occlusion and neural depolarization.
Tubule occlusion works by physically blocking the openings of the dentinal tubules on the tooth surface. Sealing the tubules stops the flow of fluid inside them, preventing the stimulation of the underlying nerve endings. This physical barrier provides immediate and sustained relief.
The second method, neural depolarization, involves interfering with the transmission of the pain signal itself. Compounds in the gel permeate the tubules and reach the nerve fibers located deep within the pulp chamber. These compounds reduce the excitability of the nerve, preventing it from sending a pain signal. This mechanism offers relief that develops more gradually over days or weeks of consistent use.
Common Active Ingredients
Specific chemical compounds are incorporated into desensitizing gels, corresponding to the two primary mechanisms of action. A common ingredient for neural depolarization is potassium nitrate, found in many over-the-counter products. The potassium ions diffuse through the dentinal tubules and disrupt the signaling between the nerve cells, preventing the transmission of pain signals.
Ingredients focused on tubule occlusion include various forms of fluoride, such as stannous fluoride or sodium fluoride. Fluoride compounds react with the tooth structure to form microscopic precipitates, which physically plug the open tubule entrances. Newer formulations often employ biomimetic ingredients like arginine and calcium phosphate compounds. These rapidly deposit a mineral-like plug within the tubules, accelerating the body’s natural process of sealing the exposed dentin.
Proper Application and Usage
Effective use of desensitizing gel depends on the product’s concentration and the specific instructions provided by a dental professional. For at-home use, the gel is often applied using a syringe tip directly to the sensitive area or placed into a custom-fitted dental tray. The tray is then worn over the teeth for a set period, typically ranging from ten to thirty minutes per application.
Frequency of use varies, but for maximum effect, it is often recommended to use the gel daily, frequently before bed, as directed by a dentist. Following the application period, users should spit out the excess gel rather than rinsing immediately. This allows the active ingredients maximum contact time with the tooth structure.
It is important to avoid eating or drinking for at least thirty minutes after application to maintain the barrier created by the gel. Users should take care not to ingest excessive amounts of the gel, as it contains concentrated active ingredients. If a temporary increase in sensitivity occurs and persists, use should be discontinued and a dental professional consulted.