Acid-Free Calcium Phosphate Confectionery for Dentinal Sensitivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current treatments for dentinal sensitivity, such as chewing gums containing calcium salts, often use acids that can exacerbate the condition and are not optimized in terms of specific salt types and doses, and the use of calcium salts as abrasives conflicts with sensitivity treatment, while acid-free options are lacking.
Innovation Solution
An acid-free confectionary product comprising 0.7% to 18% dibasic calcium phosphate and 0.07% to 3.6% tribasic calcium phosphate, preferably hydroxyapatite, is developed, with specific particle sizes to prevent dissolution and facilitate deposition on tooth surfaces, combined with a sugar-free formulation to avoid enamel damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If acids are used to dissociate calcium and phosphorus salts into ions, then dissolution is promoted, but dentinal sensitivity is exacerbated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the pH parameter from acidic to neutral/basic conditions. Instead of using acids to promote dissolution, the invention uses calcium carbonate as a base to neutralize acids and create alkaline conditions, thereby preventing dentinal sensitivity while still achieving calcium and phosphorus ion release through alternative mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful effect of acid-induced dissolution into a beneficial process by using calcium carbonate to neutralize acids. The acid that would normally cause sensitivity is transformed into a beneficial neutralization reaction that releases calcium ions and raises pH, simultaneously treating sensitivity while providing calcium supplementation
2Ease of manufacture
If calcium salts are used as abrasives, then cleaning effect is improved, but dentinal sensitivity treatment is conflicted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the functions by separating calcium salts from abrasive agents. Calcium carbonate is used exclusively for its chemical function (acid neutralization and calcium ion release) while mechanical cleaning is achieved through other means, eliminating the conflicting abrasive effect on sensitive dentin
Solution Approach 2:
The patent gives calcium carbonate multiple functions: acid neutralization, calcium ion source, and pH regulator. By making calcium carbonate multi-functional, the invention eliminates the need to use it as an abrasive, thereby resolving the contradiction between cleaning and sensitivity treatment
3Object-affected harmful factors
If acid-free formulation is used, then dentinal sensitivity is protected, but dissolution of calcium phosphate is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces calcium carbonate as an intermediary substance that mediates between the need for calcium phosphate dissolution and the need to avoid acid. Calcium carbonate neutralizes acids and creates alkaline conditions that enable calcium ion release without the harmful effects of acid, acting as a bridge between conflicting requirements
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The product effectively reduces dentinal sensitivity by providing a sustained release of calcium phosphate, which integrates with tooth surfaces, reducing sensitivity and promoting enamel health without the adverse effects of acids.
Implementation Method 1
The prior art uses acids because, by reducing the pH, they dissociate the calcium and phosphorus salts into their ions, thus promoting their dissolution
Implementation Method 2
when administered in a suitable carrier, it is deposited 'as is' on the tooth surfaces, and integrates with the underlying tissue
Implementation Method 3
This mineral forms part of the composition of enamel and dentine, constituting the majority thereof. For that reason, when administered in a suitable carrier, it is deposited 'as is' on the tooth surfaces, and integrates with the underlying tissue
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to confectionary products containing a synergic combination of dibasic calcium phosphate and tribasic calcium phosphate. Confectionary products are useful in the treatment of dentinal sensitivity.