Mouthwash Formulation Feedback

Regarding your proposed mouthwash formula for strengthening enamel and reducing sensitivity:

• Calcium Lactate (2%), Calcium Glycerophosphate (1%), Hydroxyapatite (7%), and Sodium Fluoride (0.15%): These ingredients primarily work to remineralize and strengthen tooth enamel and reduce sensitivity. While they all contribute to enamel health, they do so through slightly different mechanisms, making their combination potentially beneficial and not necessarily redundant. The proposed percentages are within typical or recommended ranges for oral care products.
• Zinc Lactate (0.5%): This ingredient functions mainly to reduce plaque, bacteria, and bad breath, which is a different role from the remineralizing agents. The concentration of 0.5% is within the recommended range for mouthwash.
• Disodium EDTA: It is generally recommended to include Disodium EDTA in water-based formulations, especially if using non-distilled water. It acts as a chelating agent, binding metal ions that can affect product stability and the efficacy of other ingredients. A usage rate of 0.1-0.2% is typical and recommended for this purpose.
• 20nm Silver Pure™ (Nano Silver): While silver has antibacterial properties, its effectiveness and regulatory approval as a sole preservative in oral care products can vary. It is advisable to use a recognized preservative system suitable for mouthwash to ensure microbial stability and safety throughout the product's shelf life.

Mouthwash Usage:

• Frequency: Using the mouthwash twice daily, in the morning and before bed after brushing, is a common and effective regimen for remineralization and sensitivity relief.
• Rinsing Afterwards: It is generally not recommended to rinse your mouth with clean water immediately after using a remineralizing or fluoride mouthwash. This can wash away the beneficial ingredients (like fluoride, calcium, and hydroxyapatite particles) that need time to interact with the tooth surface. Avoid eating, drinking, or rinsing for at least 30 minutes after use.
• Age Restrictions: Formulations containing Sodium Fluoride at 0.15% typically have age restrictions, often not recommended for children under 6 years old unless supervised, due to the risk of swallowing and potential fluorosis.

Carbamide Peroxide (44% Gel) for Whitening

Regarding the use of 44% Carbamide Peroxide gel:

• Use with a Mouthguard/Tray: Yes, a high concentration like 44% Carbamide Peroxide must be used with a custom-fitted mouthguard or tray. This is essential to keep the gel in contact with the teeth and, more importantly, to protect the soft tissues (gums, lips, cheeks) from chemical burns and severe irritation.
• Irritation without a Tray: Using 44% Carbamide Peroxide without a tray will cause significant irritation, burning, and potential damage to the soft tissues in your mouth.
• Usage Frequency: 44% Carbamide Peroxide is a very high concentration typically used for short durations (e.g., 15-30 minutes) and less frequently than lower concentrations. The exact frequency should be determined by a dental professional based on your individual needs and the specific product instructions. Daily use of such a high concentration is generally not recommended.
• Avoid Acidic/Erosive Foods: Yes, it is advisable to avoid highly acidic or staining foods and drinks for a period after whitening treatment, as the enamel may be temporarily more susceptible.
• Post-Treatment: After using the gel, rinse your mouth thoroughly with clean water to remove all residual product. Avoid brushing immediately if your gums or tissues feel sensitive; rinsing is usually sufficient.