Hypersensitivity and exposed dentin tubules Dentin hypersensitivity occurs when dentin becomes exposed and tubules are open at the dentin surface. Gingival recession is the primary way dentin is exposed in the cervical region of the tooth. Once the root is exposed, the protective layer of cementum is easily removed, resulting in open dentin tubules. Dentin hypersensitivity affects up to 57% of patients.1
Fluid disturbances within dentin tubules Based on Brännström's Hydrodynamic Theory,2,3 dentin hypersensitivity is caused by movement of fluid in open dentin tubules. Heat, cold, air and pressure can cause this rapid movement of fluid in open dentin tubules.
How pain occurs Each of these stimuli produces a movement or disturbance of fluid in the dentin tubule (as shown by the arrows in the illustration). This change in fluid flow causes a pressure change within the dentin tubule, which activates the intradental nerves causing a signal that is interpreted as pain.1 Introducing ProArgin™ Technology for Sensitivity Relief ProArgin™ Technology contains arginine, an amino acid naturally found in saliva, and calcium carbonate Research has revealed that arginine provides naturally protective oral health benefits.5,6 Colgate has harnessed this knowledge and added ProArgin™ Technology, consisting of arginine and calcium carbonate, to oral care products to deliver proven antisensitivity benefits.	The above images are for illustration purposes only.
How ProArgin™ Technology Occludes Dentin Tubules Latest research suggests that arginine and calcium carbonate interact and bind to the negatively charged dentin surface to form a calcium rich layer on the dentin surface and in the dentin tubules to plug and seal them.
How ProArgin™ Technology Blocks Pain ProArgin™ Technology triggers an occlusion of the dentin tubules that remains intact even after exposure to acids, preventing transmission of painproducing stimuli.	The above images are for illustration purposes only.

Clinically Proven to Deliver Instant and Lasting Sensitivity Relief After Single Application

1 Addy M. Dentin hypersensitivity: new perspectives on an old problem. Int Dent J. 2002;52(Suppl 5):3367-3375

2 Brännström M. A hydrodynamic mechanism in the transmission of pain-produced stimuli through the dentin. In: Sensory Mechanisms in Dentin. Anderson DJ, ed. pp 73-79. Pergamon Press. London, 1963.

3 Brännström M., Johnson G. Movements of the dentin and pulp liquids on application of thermal stimuli. Acta Odontol Scand. 1970;28:59-70.

4 Data on file, Colgate-Palmolive, 2008.

5 Kleinberg I. A new saliva based anti-caries composition. Dent Today. 1999;18:98-103.

6 Kleinberg I. Sensistat: A new saliva based composition for simple and effective treatment of dentinal sensitivity pain. Dent Today. 2002;21:42-47.