Novel pathway to restore structure and relieve sensitivity

Dentinal hypersensitivity is a common clinical complaint among the adult population in the United States. Epidemiological studies estimate that approximately one in three adults experience some degree of dental sensitivity.¹

What causes dental sensitivity? 

Dental sensitivity typically occurs when dentin becomes exposed and stimuli—thermal, tactile, osmotic, or chemical—activate the underlying nerve fibers. Several factors can contribute to this exposure. 

Gingival recession, often linked to periodontal disease or aggressive toothbrushing, is one of the most common causes. Enamel erosion, due to dietary acids, gastroesophageal reflux, or bruxism, also plays a significant role. Additional contributors include tooth-whitening procedures, abrasive oral hygiene products, and structural defects such as cracked teeth or worn restorations. 

The impact of sensitivity on quality of life can be significant. Patients report difficulty eating, talking, sleeping, and maintaining consistent oral hygiene due to discomfort. Persistent sensitivity may also signal underlying pathology requiring clinical intervention. As awareness of erosive and abrasive challenges grows—and as lifestyle factors continue to shift—understanding the prevalence, mechanisms, and clinical implications of dental sensitivity remains essential for improving prevention and management strategies. 

ReminGel as a solution 

One new preventive and management strategy includes ReminGel, a novel, aqueous remineralizing gel, consisting of a blend of hydroxyapatite (HAp), HAp precursor compounds, and bioavailable ions to restore tooth structure, strengthen enamel, and decrease sensitivity. It has been extensively studied in topical application with sustained contact time and deep delivery from a PerioProtect Tray. 

Evidence of remineralization is visually available with in vitro laser microscope study and in vivo white spot lesion treatment. Desensitization scores from patients who applied ReminGel with the PerioProtect Tray indicate significant relief within seven days.² 

The three pathways to remineralization (HAp, HAp precursors, bioavailable ions) from ReminGel are derived from a patented wet precipitation manufacturing process that uses locally sourced calcium, phosphate, and potassium salts. The HAp produced through wet precipitation has a range of sizes, including nano. The HAp precursor compounds, Monetite and Brushite, are significantly smaller than nano HAp. The bioavailable calcium, phosphate, and potassium ions are the smallest of all, allowing for deepest penetration into a dentin tubule. 

Although ReminGel can be applied via whitening trays or orthodontic aligners, the administration of ReminGel via the PerioProtect Tray provided sustained contact time with deep, subgingival delivery to reach root surfaces. Once-daily tray and gel usage at 15 minutes resulted in significant relief to patients in seven days with additional relief following 14 more days of usage.² ReminGel manages severe tooth sensitivity with potassium-mediated nerve desensitization and physical tubule occlusion from the HAp precursor compounds, which create a stronger foundation to promote ongoing remineralization of the affected area. 

This HAp-rich formulation is an option for patients who have concerns about fluoride or xylitol, as it is fluoride free and xylitol free. Patients with chronic sensitivity, at a high risk for caries, white spot lesions, and demineralization (e.g., from dry mouth or acidic drinks) can benefit. 

Resources:

1. Splieth CH, Tachou A. Epidemiology of dentin hypersensitivity. Clin Oral Investig. 2013;17 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):S3-S8. doi:10.1007/s00784-012-0889-8
2. Internal testing, VistaApex Solutions. https://providers.perioprotect.com/remingel/