Tooth Sensitivity Treatment via Calcium Precipitate Occlusion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current tooth sensitivity treatments, such as those containing potassium nitrate and bio-glass, are not completely effective in mitigating dentinal sensitivity due to inadequate occlusion of dentinal tubules, which is dependent on various variables and does not provide a consistent solution for exposed dentin.

Innovation Solution

A composition comprising specific compounds like potassium titanium oxide oxalate, which forms a precipitate with calcium on the teeth, effectively occluding dentinal tubules and reducing sensitivity, with at least 30% of the precipitate remaining after sonicating, and is applied for at least two consecutive applications spaced no more than 12 hours apart or in the presence of calcium for at least 10 seconds.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional occluding agents like potassium nitrate and bio-glass are used, then tooth sensitivity treatment is provided, but effective occlusion of dentinal tubules is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveeffectiveness of sensitivity treatmentVSAvoidocclusion of dentinal tubules
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the chemical parameters by using compounds with specific formulas (Formula I and Formula II) that have different chemical properties from conventional agents. These compounds form stable precipitates with calcium that effectively occlude dentinal tubules, resolving the contradiction between treatment effectiveness and occlusion precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses composite material systems where the active compounds (Formula I or II) work synergistically with calcium to form precipitate deposits. This composite approach creates a more effective occlusion mechanism than single-agent conventional treatments, simultaneously improving reliability and occlusion precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Duration of action of moving object

If occluding agents are applied to dentinal tubules, then sensitivity relief is achieved, but the occlusion is not stable and does not last

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveduration of sensitivity reliefVSAvoidstability of occlusion
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The compounds in the invention perform preliminary action by forming stable precipitates with calcium that create lasting occlusion. The precipitate formation occurs during the application process itself, creating a stable barrier before exposure to oral conditions, thereby extending the duration of sensitivity relief and improving occlusion stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention utilizes phase transition from soluble compound to insoluble precipitate. The compounds (Formula I or II) transition from dissolved state in the composition to solid precipitate deposits on the dentin surface, creating stable and long-lasting occlusion that resists dislodgement and maintains effectiveness over time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #36Phase transitions

3Quantity of substance

If precipitate formation is increased to improve occlusion, then more material remains on teeth, but the composition becomes less stable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveamount of precipitate on teethVSAvoidstability of precipitate deposit
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes chemical parameters including pH (adjusted to specific ranges), ionic strength, and compound concentration to control precipitate formation. These parameter changes ensure that sufficient precipitate forms for effective occlusion while maintaining composition stability and preventing premature precipitation during storage or application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 composition provides significant and long-lasting occlusion of dentinal tubules, demonstrated by increased stability of the precipitate deposits, leading to effective tooth desensitization and prolonged relief from sensitivity.

Implementation Method 1

the compound of Formula I forms a precipitate with the calcium on or in the vicinity of the teeth

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPrecipitation: Precipitation

Implementation Method 2

A method of depositing a precipitate on teeth and/or dentinal tubules of teeth

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDeposition: Deposition (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP2281548B1Tooth sensitivity treatment compositions
Publication Date: 2018.01.31 JOHNSON & JOHNSON CONSUMER INC
  • EP2281548B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2281548B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2281548B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

A tooth sensitivity treatment composition is disclosed. The composition includes a compound of Formula I          M1-A-M2-B-M3     (I) wherein: M1 and M3 are, independently, a monovalent or divalent metal; M2 is a polyvalent metal or metal oxide; and A and B are, independently, selected from the group consisting of C2 - C6 diacids, triacids, and tetraacids. Methods for treating tooth sensitivity are also disclosed.