Toothpaste: Potassium Nitrate

If you've ever had teeth sensitivity to hot, cold, sweets, or air,  you may already use a product designed to help with the pain.


Potassium nitrate is added to toothpastes such as Sensodyne to help with sensitivity.  It works by blocking of nerve activity and pain transmission.

Research proves potassium nitrate's effectiveness, and the American Dental Association allows manufacturers to advertise decreased sensitivity as an advantage.

"Dimensions"
 

Point of interest: Potassium nitrate (saltpeter) is one of the 3 ingredients in gunpowder.