Nanoscale analysis using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) has given Indiana Nanotech and 3M ESPE visual proof of Clinpro toothpaste's hypersensitivity benefits (American Journal of Dentistry, December 2011, Vol. 24:6, pp. 357-362).
Teeth hypersensitivity occurs when nerves in the dentin are exposed to stimuli such as hot or cold drinks. Toothpastes that claim to relieve the pain of sensitive teeth are believed to work by blocking the tubules in the dentin that lead to the nerves.
Craig Schwandt, PhD, senior research scientist at McCrone Associates and a study co-author, analyzed demineralized dentin treated with various toothpastes to determine which could form mineral deposits in the tubules. The toothpastes were fluoride-free Silly Strawberry, Clinpro 5000, Clinpro Tooth Crème, MI Paste Plus, Sensodyne Nupro 5000, and Topex Renew.
Schwandt showed that Clinpro products promoted mineral deposits in the dentin tubules, and that Clinpro was the most effective at filling the tubules compared with the other brands, according to McCrone. The deposits were also resistant to acid, which, for instance, can take the form as an acidic beverage like coffee, or be generated as a byproduct of bacteria as it breaks down sugar in the mouth.
FESEM also revealed that the other toothpastes only exhibited moderate abilities to block the tubules, and none of their deposits was acid-resistant.
