Colgate-Palmolive presents technology for use with hypersensitivity

MIAMI, Florida--Colgate-Palmolive, a leader in oral care, has introduced technology that provides instant and lasting pain relief for dentin hypersensitivity.

Colgate presented its Pro-Argin technology during a satellite symposium at the 2009 General Session of the International Association for Dental Research. This Pro-Argin technology uses a combination of an amino acid, arginine, and an insoluble calcium compound--calcium carbonate--to seal open dentin tubules and help block the transmission of heat, cold, air and pressure stimuli to pain receptors within teeth.

Colgate has added this revolutionary technology to a new product, Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief, an in-office desensitizing paste with Pro-Argin technology.

Dentin hypersensitivity is a highly prevalent condition, affecting up to 57% of patients worldwide. Despite current treatment methods, including the use of high concentration fluoride or potassium salts, patients continue to experience dentin hypersensitivity.

"Correct diagnosis and effective treatment are critical to relieving this condition, which can seriously impact a patient's quality of life," said Dr. Mark S. Wolff, chair of the department of cariology and comprehensive care, associate dean for predoctoral clinical education, New York University College of Dentistry.

"There is still a need for fast, lasting relief in the dental office. This Pro-Argin technology will make dentin hypersensitivity a patient complaint that can be easily addressed and managed as part of an overall treatment plan."

Arginine is an amino acid naturally found in saliva that provides naturally protective oral health benefits. Latest research suggests, the positively charged arginine in the Pro-Argin technology binds to the negatively charged dentin surface and helps attract a calcium-rich layer into the dentin tubules to effectively plug and seal them.

Arginine triggers occlusion of the dentin tubules, which remains intact even after exposure to acids, helping to prevent transmission of pain-producing stimuli.

"Our Pro-Argin technology not only reinforces Colgate's commitment to R&D but revolutionizes the way dentin hypersensitivity will be treated and prevented," said Dr. William DeVizio, vice president, global technology, Colgate-Palmolive. "As a trusted partner of the profession, Colgate will continue to deliver solutions to serious oral conditions, helping to improve the oral health and well-being of patients worldwide."

Colgate's Pro-Argin technology aim to offer patients comfort and convenience without compromising treatment efficacy. The Pro-Argin technology, in the form of an in-office product, is clinically proven to treat dentin hypersensitivity.

Specifically, new Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief desensitizing paste with Pro-Argin technology is clinically proven to provide sensitivity relief that lasts for four weeks after a single application.

It can be used before or after dental procedures, such as prophylaxis and scaling. When applied prior to a professional dental cleaning, this desensitizing paste can provide a reduction in dentin hypersensitivity measured immediately following the dental cleaning as compared to a control prophylaxis paste.

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References available upon request from company.