potassium nitrate + sodium fluoride (GSK)

Sensodyne Extra Whitening is an over-the-counter (OTC) desensitizing toothpaste developed and marketed by GSK. It is specifically formulated to address dentinal hypersensitivity while providing dental caries protection and surface stain removal. The product contains two primary active ingredients: potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride. Potassium nitrate works by increasing the concentration of extracellular potassium ions around the dental nerve fibers, leading to depolarization of the nerve cell membrane and inhibiting the transmission of pain signals caused by stimuli such as heat, cold, or pressure. Sodium fluoride provides fluoride ions that integrate into the tooth enamel's hydroxyapatite structure, forming fluorapatite, which is more resistant to acid-induced demineralization and promotes remineralization. The Extra Whitening formulation also includes abrasive agents like hydrated silica to mechanically remove extrinsic stains from the tooth surface.

Brand names

Sensodyne Extra Whitening

Other names

Sensodyne Extra Whitening Toothpaste