The graph above shows how quickly DenShield use dramatically reduces tooth sensitivity. Click on the adjacent links for detailed Case Studies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DenShield safe?

Yes. The active ingredient in DenShield, NovaMin (Calcium Sodium Phosphosilicate) is completely safe and non-toxic. It has passed all international standards for safety. It is made up only of elements naturally occurring in the body and has been safely used for 20 years in bone related surgeries. The other ingredients in DenShield are all commonly used ingredients in toothpaste products.

Has DenShield been proven to be effective?

Yes. DenShield has been demonstrated to reduce sensitivity completely or almost completely in most people suffering from normal tooth sensitivity. In a controlled clinical study DenShield reduced sensitivity by 90% on average among persons with moderate to severe tooth sensitivity to cold and pressure. In that same study a majority of people experienced complete relief from their sensitivity. In addition, the active ingredient, NovaMin, has been shown to reduce sensitivity in at least three other clinical studies.

How does DenShield work?

The active ingredient in DenShield, NovaMin (Calcium Sodium Phosphosilicate), releases very high levels of calcium, phosphorus and sodium ions. The Ca and P ions are the same as those naturally occurring in saliva, and which cause natural tooth remineralization. The sodium ions further catalyze the formation of new mineral (hydroxyapatite) on the tooth surface and into open dentin tubules. This process mimics the natural mineral forming process in the mouth.

What is the "Shield" in DenShield?

DenShield forms a "shield" of hydroxyapatite over and into the open tubules that lead to tooth sensitivity. Hydroxyapatite is the crystalline form of calcium phosphate that makes up the mineral phase in teeth and bones. This shield is completely natural.

Does DenShield have any negative side effects?

None that we know of. In the clinical study there were no reported adverse events.

What if my patient's sensitivity comes back during the once-per-week phase of treatment?

They should simply brush a few days in a row, until they experience relief again, then go back to weekly. They can use either the "Shield Builder" or the "Shield Saver" for this purpose. Some individuals may find that they have to use the product more often than once per week. This is perfectly safe and acceptable to do. The reasons for this may include factors such as over-brushing or excessive consumption of acidic beverages. Patients may also be counseled against these behaviors.

What is the difference between "Shield Builder" and "Shield Saver"?

There is no difference. The separate packaging is intended as a convenience and aid to compliance.

Should my patients replace their normal toothpaste with DenShield on days that they are using DenShield?

This is acceptable, or they can also continue with their current product. DenShield is formulated with cleaning agents so that it will provide plaque control and cleaning associated with normal toothpaste during its use. It does not, however, contain fluoride so it may not be appropriate for some patients to replace their normal toothpaste with DenShield.

Is DenShield similar to Sensodyne?

DenShield is very different from Sensodyne and other commonly available sensitivity toothpastes. Some versions of these products use Potassium Nitrate or Potassium Chloride to deaden the nerve. Potassium compounds do not really solve the problem (open tubules and stimulation of the pulp nerve), but merely deaden the nerve impulse. This can hide more serious problems. It also is ineffective and slow acting for a majority of patients. Some older versions of these products use Strontium Chloride. Strontium Chloride is similar in that it occludes open tubules, but it does so very gradually and it does so with a foreign substance, not natural tooth mineral. Strontium Chloride is also usually bad tasting, and this reduces compliance.

DenShield is more expensive than other sensitivity products, is it worth it?

Remember that DenShield comes in a six-month supply, and a regular tube of sensitivity toothpaste probably only lasts for 4-6 weeks. So, DenShield is not that much more expensive over the 6 month period. DenShield is, however, more expensive that common sensitivity toothpastes, but that is because it contains an all new technology that really works. Using DenShield has a daily cost of just a few pennies. Most people with sensitivity find this a very small price to pay for the ability to enjoy their favorite foods and beverages without pain.

Will DenShield prevent (or resolve) sensitivity from peroxide whitening products?

There have not been any studies looking specifically at this. It is expected that it would have some benefit in these cases, although there are other factors involved so results may not be as good as those seen for regular sensitivity cases.

Will DenShield affect the whiteness of teeth?

No. In fact, the active ingredient (NovaMin) has been shown in other clinical studies to have a moderate whitening benefit.