A recent study suggested that the use of toothpaste containing tricalcium phosphate can reduce Dentinal Hypersensitivity(DH) effectively. If clinicians use it properly, it can be the first option for the treatment of initial DH or an alternative to composite resin restoration at the cervical lesions.
Numerous desensitizing techniques have been employed professionally or at home to treat DH. Desensitizing toothpaste has been considered a key treatment modality for the treatment of DH. The initial desensitizing toothpaste made claims that they would either obstruct dentinal tubules (those containing strontium salts and fluorides) or would obliterate essential elements inside the tubules (those containing formaldehyde). Currently, potassium salts such as potassium nitrate, potassium chloride, and potassium citrate are present in the majority of desensitizing toothpaste. Furthermore, recent research revealed that a remineralizing toothpaste with calcium phosphates, sodium fluoride, and bioactive glass (calcium sodium phosphosilicate) reduced DH.
In a recent clinical trial, toothpaste containing different active components were evaluated for its DH relief efficacy. Strontium chloride(Group SC)was incorporated into the toothpaste assuming that it treated tooth sensitivity by occluding the dentin tubules. The negative control(Group N), ‘Pleasia fluoride-free, did not contain any active ingredients for DH relief. A commercially available toothpaste containing tricalcium phosphate (Group TP) was given to the third group.
In this clinical trial, Group TP exhibited better DH alleviation than Group N against air-blast and cold stimuli. In addition, it showed similar effects to Group SC.
Tricalcium Phosphate has been known to increase salivary calcium levels and is one of the materials that can improve the process of tooth remineralization due to its calcium and phosphate content. It may be speculated that Tricalcium Phospate induces a response similar to the in vivo remineralization process, thereby contributing to the reduction in DH.
Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that the use of toothpaste containing tricalcium phosphate can reduce DH effectively. If clinicians use it properly, it can be the first option for the treatment of initial DH or an alternative to composite resin restoration at the cervical lesion.
Source: Scientific Reports
Clinical role of tricalcium phosphate
Calcium-phosphate formulations aim to reduce hypersensitivity by supporting mineral deposition and occluding patent dentinal tubules. They should be viewed as one category of desensitising treatment rather than a replacement for diagnosis or definitive management of cervical disease.
When a non-invasive trial is reasonable
- Brief, reproducible pain from exposed dentin after caries, cracks and pulpal disease have been excluded.
- Non-carious cervical lesions without structural or aesthetic indications for restoration.
- Recession-associated sensitivity alongside control of traumatic brushing and erosive factors.
- Patients able to use the product consistently and return for outcome review.
How to judge response
Record a baseline stimulus and pain score, give consistent use instructions and reassess rather than relying on a single subjective impression. Escalate to professional desensitisers, adhesive sealing or restorative treatment when symptoms persist or lesion characteristics require it.
Compare this modality with the broader sensitive-toothpaste guide and the TRPC5 cold-pain research explainer.
Frequently asked questions
How might tricalcium phosphate reduce sensitivity?
It is intended to support mineral deposition and reduce fluid movement by occluding exposed dentinal tubules.
Can it treat a cracked tooth?
No. Structural cracks require diagnosis and appropriate definitive management.
Is every cervical lesion best managed with toothpaste?
No. Lesion progression, structure, aesthetics, plaque control and symptoms may support professional or restorative care.
How quickly should improvement occur?
Response depends on formulation, severity and adherence; use the product as directed and define a review interval.
What should be managed alongside the toothpaste?
Address aggressive brushing, dietary acids, reflux, recession, plaque and other causal factors.