Each tube of Davids Toothpaste is made using 100% recyclable metal and it is easy for you to get all the paste possible from each tube by flattening from the bottom (or using a Davids tube key). When the tube is completely empty, you will want to effectively recycle your tube. Here's a step-by-step guide + video on how to!
Take some scissors or shears and cut off both ends of the tube.
Cut a slit the full length of the tube to fold open the tube to access the inside of the tube for cleaning....the edges of metal are sharp, so please be careful.
Wash off the excess paste with running water....toothbrush can be helpful here for removing all the paste.
Discard metal in the recycle bin. It will be up to your local waste management provider to properly sort/recycle as we do not currently take back used tubes for recycling.
key takeaways
Deciding between edathamil vs. nano hydroxyapatite in toothpaste requires understanding their distinct benefits and limitations to choose the right ingredient for your oral health goals.
Edathamil helps loosen mineral deposits such as tartar and plaque, but it doesn’t support enamel remineralization.
Nano hydroxyapatite naturally supports enamel strength by filling microscopic fissures and smoothing the tooth surface.
Davids chooses nano hydroxyapatite because of the multiple scientifically verified benefits and its biocompatibility.
Deciding between edathamil vs. nano hydroxyapatite in toothpaste involves understanding how each ingredient works to support your oral health. Both ingredients are growing in popularity in toothpaste formulations, but serve different purposes.
But which one is right for you?
That’s what we’ll help you figure out today as we explore the benefits, limitations, and safety profiles of these ingredients. Let’s see how nano hydroxyapatite and edathamil in toothpaste can help you reach your dental health goals.
what is edathamil?
Edathamil, also known as EDTA, is a chelating agent commonly used in oral care products. Edathamil’s function vs. nano hydroxyapatite is to bind to minerals like calcium and magnesium, helping to break down plaque and tartar.
Edathamil is not an active mineral itself but works by loosening mineral deposits attached to the teeth and gums. It helps maintain oral cleanliness when used as directed, although it doesn’t rebuild or strengthen enamel.
what is nano hydroxyapatite?
Hydroxyapatite (HA) is a naturally occurring mineral that makes up about 97% of your enamel and 70% of your bones. Nano hydroxyapatite (nHA), a specially engineered form, is used in Davids Hydroxi™ advanced toothpaste formulations. Though sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably, it is important to know that HA and nHA are different ingredients due to the difference in particle size and possibly other material specifications.
This mineral mimics the natural composition of teeth and supports remineralization by filling microscopic fissures. It helps strengthen the enamel and smooth its surface.
the science behindedathamil vs. nano hydroxyapatite
Nano hydroxyapatite helps to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. Activated edathamil is a biofilm destabilizer and works on the bacteria ecosystem, while nano hydroxyapatite is a bioactive surface modifier that works on the tooth substrate.
Edathamil in toothpaste destabilizes the architecture of plaque. Plaque bacteria rely on calcium bridges to hold the biofilm together and attach to your enamel. By removing the calcium, the structure weakens, and it is easier to remove by brushing.
how nano hydroxyapatite can prevent plaque from adhering to enamel
Nano hydroxyapatite doesn't change the plaque chemistry, but it does change the terrain bacteria try to colonize. It integrates into the enamel and changes the surface properties, reducing bacterial colonization and biofilm formation on enamel surfaces. nHA literally makes it harder for plaque to adhere to enamel and thins the biofilm layers.
Plaque is a "softer" hydrated bacterial matrix made of proteins and other minerals. But they are loosely bound. nHA particles can also embed inside the matrix and interfere with how bacteria actually anchors to the tooth surface.
nHA has two mechanisms that help it:
The particles help to make teeth smoother, and fewer microscopic pits or irregularities on the tooth means weaker bacterial attachment.
The particles get into the biofilm itself, which increases the brittleness of plaque and makes it easier to remove during brushing. It weakens adhesion and changes the surface energy.
the impact of edathamil vs. nano hydroxyapatite on tartar and plaque
Neither edathamil nor nHA removes tartar. Tartar is plaque that has mineralized and is no longer a soft biofilm; it's a calcified deposit that is physically bonded to the enamel. Removing it requires mechanical scaling at the dentist, where the hygienist literally shears it off. No topical ingredient can penetrate the crystallized structure of tartar.
When comparing edathamil vs. nano hydroxyapatite, edathamil may be better at raw plaque reduction because it attacks the actual makeup of the plaque and weakens that scaffold, but nHA is better at making plaque less sticky and making it slower to return.
Edathamil in toothpaste is better at reducing your current plaque buildup (not tartar) fast, but nHA is better at preventing plaque buildup.
why Davids nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste is better for long-term use vs. edathamil
Davids Hydroxi™ formula includes ultrafine micro abrasives that help to polish away plaque while the nano hydroxyapatite fills in microfissures and cracks and smooths the tooth's surface, making it harder for plaque to stick to the tooth surface.
If you have a lot of plaque and getting rid of that plaque quickly is the most important goal, then an edathamil toothpaste is suitable. However, for long-term use, edathamil does not add any sort of remineralization or enamel health benefits aside from plaque prevention. In the long term, nano hydroxyapatite is a better choice once the plaque is under control.
Since edathamil is a calcium-chelating agent, it also can't really be used in formulas with fluoride or nano hydroxyapatite because it doesn’t work effectively on a chemistry level.
edathamil vs. nano hydroxyapatite: safety and scientific backing
Both nano hydroxyapatite and edathamil in toothpaste have established safety profiles when used as directed.
Edathamil is approved for use in various dental products to control tartar and prevent common oral health problems. However, excessive use of this ingredient may disturb mineral balance and potentially weaken mineralized tissues.
Nano hydroxyapatite is safe for kids and adults, with numerous studies confirming its ability to remineralize enamel.
edathamil vs. nano hydroxyapatite: which ingredient is right for you?
Not sure which one is best for your dental care? Here is a quick comparison to help you choose the right ingredient based on your oral health goals.
edathamil-based toothpaste
Useful as part of a holistic oral care routine
Ideal for those concerned about a high amount of plaque buildup who want to remove it quickly
Effective for regular plaque control and prevention, offering enhanced cleaning power
Not ideal for those focusing on enamel remineralization or sensitivity relief
nano hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste
Ideal for enamel strength and remineralization
Suitable for sensitivity relief by sealing dentin tubules
Perfect for early signs of enamel wear and microfissures
Helpful for supporting overall enamel health and surface smoothness
Great for those seeking a scientifically backed, naturally sourced solution
edathamil vs. nano hydroxyapatite: why nano hydroxyapatite is the better choice
Unless you have a high amount of plaque buildup, nano hydroxyapatite is usually the better choice. With daily use of nano hydroxyapatite, you are constantly supporting remineralization and strengthening of enamel. You are also reducing the risk of progressive sensitivity and acid-related wear. You’re not relying on aggressive chemicals or interfering with calcium availability. You’re building resilience.
With daily use of edathamil, you would be aiding plaque disruption, but you still need strong remineralizing support to prevent caries and enamel breakdown.
If you take scientific evidence at face value and think about what matters most over decades, the integrity of enamel and prevention of cavity progression are foundational. Gum health matters, but modern brushing and flossing already do most of the plaque disruption. Nano hydroxyapatite adds a structural layer of protection that is hard to replicate without mineral-based chemistry.
edathamil vs. nano hydroxyapatite: why not combine both?
You may be wondering: why not use both nano hydroxyapatite and edathamil in toothpastes to leverage all their benefits?
While that seems like a good idea on paper, there are severe limitations to it. Let’s review them.
formulation challenge
Balancing the stability and efficacy of both ingredients in a single formulation is complicated because the chemistry of making both ingredients work in one formula is problematic.
Nano hydroxyapatite is a calcium phosphate material. Edathamil binds calcium. If you put an active chelator next to a calcium-based remineralizing agent, you create a built-in conflict.
In theory, edathamil could bind calcium ions on the surface of nano hydroxyapatite particles or interfere with their interaction with enamel. In practice, this means one of two things usually happens:
Either the edathamil concentration is kept low enough that it does not meaningfully disrupt the nano hydroxyapatite, which limits its plaque-disrupting power.
Or the edathamil remains active and reduces the effectiveness of nano hydroxyapatite deposition and remineralization.
why davids chooses nano hydroxyapatite over edathamil
At Davids, we prioritize ingredients that support natural enamel health and long-term oral wellness. We choose nano hydroxyapatite because it’s a naturally occurring mineral that directly supports remineralization and surface smoothing.
Unlike edathamil, which mainly loosens mineral deposits, nano hydroxyapatite reinforces tooth structure without disrupting mineral balance.
We believe in providing formulations that help maintain the integrity of your teeth without relying on harsh chemicals and chelating agents such as edathamil.
brighten your smile with informed choices
Understanding the differences between edathamil vs. nano hydroxyapatite helps you select the right premium toothpaste for your specific dental health needs.
If you’ve decided to go for a toothpaste with nano hydroxyapatite instead of edathamil, try Davids sensitive+whitening toothpaste. Shop our oral care products today and choose ingredients your body can trust!
buy premium dental care products now
key takeaways
Oil pulling is an ancient practice from Ayurveda that involves swishing about a spoonful of oil in your mouth for several minutes and then spitting it out.
The oil naturally binds to and traps debris, food particles, and certain types of bacteria, and removes these impurities when spat out.
Oil pulling is beneficial for dental health because it supports balanced oral wellness, may help reduce plaque buildup, freshens breath, and promotes gum health.
Davids Hydroxi™ oil pulling oral rinse combines 100% MCT coconut oil with nano hydroxyapatite (nHA) to support enamel remineralization and freshen breath.
We bet the first time you ever heard someone talk about swishing oil around their mouth to clean it, your reaction was probably somewhere between confusion and curiosity. You’re not the only one.
Oil pulling sounds unusual, almost like a fad wellness trend. But it’s a practice that originates from Ayurveda, the traditional Hindu system of medicine, and one of the world’s oldest health systems. Today, it’s a modern ritual people use to elevate their daily oral care routine.
Why is oil pulling so popular for dental health? Let’s take a look.
oil pulling 101
To appreciate the many oil pulling benefits, it’s key to first understand how oil pulling is done and why it works.
The process itself is incredibly straightforward. You pour about a spoonful of oil into your mouth and swish it around for several minutes, then spit it out when you’re done. That’s it. There’s no need to overhaul your entire dental routine. Do remember to spit into the garbage, as oil can clog sinks.
Most people start with three to five minutes and gradually build up as they get comfortable or even start to see the benefits of oil pulling for their teeth and gums.
why do people prefer coconut oil for oil pulling?
The most common oils used for this grounding routine are coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil. However, the most commonly used nowadays is coconut oil because it has a mild taste and natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, largely attributed to its high lauric acid content, which has been shown to fight harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Davids special oil pulling oral rinse is made with 100% MCT coconut oil. MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides, a type of fat made up of medium-length fatty acid chains, which is absorbed quickly and thus more effective than normal coconut oil at “pulling” harmful oral bacteria and other microorganisms.
how oil pulling works
Speaking of “pulling,” how does this practice actually work? While it isn’t a replacement for brushing or flossing your teeth, the mechanism behind oil pulling for dental health is surprisingly logical.
Oils naturally bind to debris, food particles, and certain types of bacteria because bacterial membranes are primarily composed of lipids (fatty acids).
When you gently swish the oil, it mixes with your saliva and traps unwanted substances suspended in that mixture. Once you spit it out, you remove a portion of those unwanted substances from the mouth, including a portion of the bacterial load.
is oil pulling a form of detox?
That depends on your definition. Oil pulling is a mechanical action, not a chemical reaction. I It doesn’t “detox” the whole body or cure disease, and you should be careful about any product that promises to do so. However, oil pulling benefits do include the reduction of toxins and plaque causing bacteria from the gums and mouth
It also doesn’t remove hardened tartar. However, by reducing the amount of harmful bacteria in your mouth, you’re essentially creating a cleaner, healthier environment for the rest of your oral routine.
the benefits of oil pulling for your teeth and gum health
There’s a reason why oil pulling has become a trending ritual. People love how clean and refreshed their mouths feel afterward, and now science is slowly catching up to explain how and why this ancient ritual is so effective.
1. it supports a balanced oral microbiome
One of the biggest oil pulling benefits comes from how the oil interacts with your oral environment. As you swish, it binds to bacteria and unwanted debris in your mouth and helps lift them away when you spit it out.
Because oils coat the mouth rather than strip it, the experience is much gentler than many alcohol-based or detergent-filled rinses. This is especially great for people who deal with dry mouth or irritation often.
A more balanced bacterial environment supports overall mouth wellness; thus, many people report that regular oil pulling helps improve their dental health by making their mouths feel calmer and less inflamed.
2. it can help reduce plaque buildup
Plaque forms when bacteria mix with food particles and saliva, so reducing excess bacteria also reduces the opportunity for plaque to accumulate.
This is supported by research, which shows that the mechanical cleaning action of swishing oil, plus its viscosity, saponification, and emulsification in the mouth, disrupts bacterial communities and slows plaque formation over time.
Brushing and flossing still do the heavy lifting, but oil pulling can play a helpful supporting role in plaque removal. People who practice regular oil pulling notice benefits like smoother teeth and a cleaner-feeling mouth.
3. fresh breath support
Bad breath usually comes from odor-producing bacteria on the tongue and between the teeth. These bacteria break down proteins and amino acids from food debris and saliva to produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs).
Because oil pulling helps remove some of these sulfur-producing microbes, many people experience fresher breath as one of the immediate oil pulling benefits.
Coconut oil is especially great for this because it contains a high amount of lauric acid, a fatty acid with documented antimicrobial properties.
It isn’t a quick minty fix, but you’ll notice a freshness that lingers long after you brush your teeth if you stick with oil pulling.
4. it can promote gum health
Because oil pulling may help reduce plaque, it can indirectly support healthier gums. Less plaque means less irritation, swelling, or bleeding, all of which are issues that can appear in the early stages of gum disease. This is where oil pulling for gum health enters the conversation.
Oils are naturally gentle and soothing, so the texture itself may feel calming for people with tender gums. And while oil pulling benefits the gums, it is not a treatment but a complementary habit for dental health. Persistent gum issues deserve a dentist’s attention.
5. it's gentle on sensitive mouths
If your mouth reacts easily to abrasives, foaming agents like SLS, or alcohol-based rinses, oil pulling can feel like a breath of fresh air.
Oils contain none of these potential irritants, which is why many people with weakened enamel or dentin hypersensitivity prefer this practice to conventional rinses.
does oil pulling whiten your teeth?
One of the most touted oil pulling benefits is that it will give you a dazzling smile like the models in those toothpaste commercials. However, the truth is more modest.
Oil pulling does help to remove surface film on the teeth and some stains. This gives your smile a slightly brighter appearance, but it does not whiten enamel or alter the natural color of your teeth the way whiteners like peroxides do.
Davids Hydroxi™ oil pulling oral rinse does add nano hydroxyapatite which can help to smooth enamel and create a brighter appearance as well.
discover Davids Hydroxi™ oil pulling oral rinse
If you’re looking to support your enamel and freshen your mouth, our science‑backed Hydroxi™ oil pulling oral rinse pairs 100% MCT coconut oil with nano hydroxyapatite (nHA) to help lift plaque and support remineralization. Its premium mint oils leave your mouth feeling fresh and revitalized.
While oil pulling may contribute to a cleaner look and feel, the strongest evidence for visible whitening comes from enamel-strengthening ingredients like nHA rather than the oil alone.
Add this simple yet effective rinse to your oral care routine and experience the benefits of oil pulling for your dental and gum health today.
key Takeaways
Understanding the common causes of tooth sensitivity helps in choosing effective treatments and preventing future issues.
Acidic foods, aggressive brushing, teeth grinding, and whitening products are all factors that can lead to tooth sensitivity.
Managing underlying issues such as acid reflux, gum disease, and tooth wear, along with proper hygiene, is essential for preventing long-term sensitivity.
Daily use of nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste for sensitive teeth can remineralize enamel, reducing sensitivity and strengthening the teeth against common triggers.
Picture this: you’re eating an ice-cold snack on a hot summer day when suddenly, your sensitive tooth reminds you it’s alive and (un)well. We know how annoying and disruptive sensitive teeth can be, but understanding what causes sensitive teeth can lead to a long-term solution.
That’s why we’re exploring the 10 most common causes of sensitive teeth. We’re also providing realistic, everyday solutions, many of which revolve around brushing daily with nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
Because it’s time to get to the root of your sensitivity and solve the problem once and for all.
1. what causes sensitive teeth: acidic, sugary substances
Acidic substances (citrus fruits, vinegar, tomatoes, yogurt, etc.) can erode your enamel and wear down your gum line over time. This erosion “opens the door” for bacteria and other substances to enter the inner layers of your teeth, exposing the tubules that lead to your tooth’s center nerve.
Foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates can have the same effect since the bacteria in your mouth (and gut) release acids to break down these carbohydrates, depositing more acid on your enamel and leading to sensitivity.
Don’t worry, daily brushing with a nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can clean the acids, plaque, and bacteria in your mouth while also remineralizing enamel, making your teeth stronger and more resilient to future threats.
2. what causes sensitive teeth: brushing too aggressively
One of the lesser-known causes of sensitive teeth is brushing too hard. That’s right, aggressive brushing doesn’t actually clean your teeth more effectively! Over time, it can cause more harm than good by wearing down your enamel and gum line.
To avoid this, do the following:
Use a soft-bristle toothbrush (like our bamboo toothbrush).
Practice mindfulness every time you brush.
Make an effort to brush with soft motions.
Gently sweep over your teeth and gums in circular or back-and-forth motions without pressing too hard.
3. what causes sensitive teeth: teeth grinding
Do you feel tension headaches and jaw soreness after a long day or a night of sleep? These could be signs that you grind your teeth when you’re sleeping (or subconsciously throughout the day when you’re stressed).
Constantly clenching your teeth can also lead to enamel and gum damage, causing pain in your muscles and sensitivity in your teeth! There could be several reasons why you’re grinding your teeth. Identify those reasons and use a nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste for sensitive teeth to remedy them.
The nano hydroxyapatite (nHA) particles in our formula can actually bind to your enamel and repair the small holes, scratches, and depressions caused by grinding over time.
4. what causes sensitive teeth: teeth whitening with peroxides
Do you whiten your teeth with peroxide-based products? While hydrogen peroxide + carbamide peroxide are effective tooth whitening agents, they’re famous for stripping your enamel and causing:
Itching
Burning
Swelling
Redness
Sensitivity
Don’t worry, there’s a more natural approach to whitening that actually fortifies your enamel. Meet PAP teeth whitening, aka the peroxide-free future of teeth whitening.
PAP is an organic acid that activates bleaching, and it’s often mixed with hydroxyapatite to give you a gentle whitening formula that nurtures enamel remineralization and soothes sensitivity as it whitens. What’s not to love?
5. what causes sensitive teeth: chemical mouthwash
Are you using conventional mouthwash every day? Many chemical mouthwashes contain alcohol and hydrogen peroxide. These ingredients are very harsh on your enamel and can lead to pain and sensitivity.
Instead of completely wiping out all of the microorganisms in your mouth with chemical mouthwash, we recommend:
Tongue scraping
Switching to a more natural mouthwash
Using a nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste for sensitive teeth
By making these swaps, you’re nurturing a healthier balance of bacteria in your oral microbiome (yes, good bacteria exist and are essential for your oral and overall health).
6. what causes sensitive teeth: plaque buildup around the gumline
Plaque and tartar are two factors that will harm your enamel and gum line over time, leading to uncomfortable tooth sensitivity.
Plaque is a soft, sticky biofilm made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva that constantly forms on teeth and along the gumline. If it isn’t removed through daily brushing and flossing, it can begin to mineralize within 24–72 hours and harden into tartar, which only a dental professional can remove. So if your teeth feel rough when you press your tongue against them, you’re past due for a visit to the dentist!
To prevent plaque and tartar buildup, brush daily with our hydroxyapatite toothpaste, which contains:
Micro abrasives to break down plaque
Hydroxyapatite to deliver enamel strengthening
Xylitol and peppermint oils to kill harmful bacteria
7. what causes sensitive teeth: acid reflux
Just like acidic foods can cause sensitivity, so can acid reflux. This effect is just another example of how your gut health and oral health are so closely intertwined.
Although many doctors will prescribe an antacid medication and recommend using a nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste for sensitive teeth, we believe it’s essential for your holistic health to identify the root cause of your acid reflux.
Do you have low stomach acid levels from stress, magnesium deficiency, poor eating habits, H. pylori infection, or hypothyroidism? We encourage you to consult both a medical doctor and a functional medical practitioner in your area to develop a plan of action that best nourishes your oral and overall health.
8. what causes sensitive teeth: cavities, cracked teeth, worn fillings
It may seem obvious, but cavities, cracked teeth, and worn fillings are all leading causes of tooth sensitivity and discomfort.
If your sensitivity persists despite daily brushing with hydroxyapatite toothpaste, it’s best to visit your dentist to see if the enamel wear has progressed to decay.
Dental professionals can also check for cracks in your teeth and worn fillings. As you get older, fillings can weaken, and bacteria can build up around the edges, leading to uncomfortable sensitivity that only your dentist can treat.
9. what causes sensitive teeth: gum recession + gum disease
You can see that many of the above causes of sensitive teeth revolve around enamel wear and gum health. If your gums begin to recede or form “pockets” because of periodontitis, you’re going to experience persistent sensitivity.
When your gums recede, they expose parts of your teeth that should not come in contact with the outside world. The lower parts of your teeth (which are usually protected by your gums) contain tubules that lead to your center nerve, so when they become exposed, sensitivity starts.
If you notice your sensitivity is coupled with bleeding gums, redness, and inflammation, you might be dealing with gum disease. It’s best to get your gums checked out by your dentist. In the meantime, brush with a nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste for sensitive teeth to alleviate the symptoms.
10. what causes sensitive teeth: aging
We can’t stress this enough: it’s so important to start caring for your enamel and gums as early as possible so you can prevent sensitivity as you age. So, if you’ve been waiting to try hydroxyapatite toothpaste, our best advice is to go for it.
Your oral care habits, eating habits, everyday wear and tear, and genetics all accumulate over time, which can lead to sensitivity throughout adulthood.
As you age, you might take new medications that can lead to dry mouth and sensitivity, so it’s best to start enamel-strengthening habits when you’re young.
why davids is the best hydroxyapatite toothpaste
Now that you understand what causes sensitive teeth, you can take proactive steps to protect and strengthen your enamel. One of these steps involves switching to a nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste for sensitive teeth, and Davids offers one of the most effective options.
You don’t have to take our word for it. We had our Hydroxi™ nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste tested at Intertek, a respected third party lab, comparing our Davids to leading sensitive toothpastes on the market.
The photo results proved that our formula outperformed the rest, successfully promoting enamel strengthening by remineralizing holes, scratches, and imperfections.
Ready to try it for yourself? Buy our nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste today and brush smarter with science-backed ingredients!
buy premium hydroxyapatite toothpaste now
faqs about what causes sensitive teeth?
can using a nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste for sensitive teeth prevent future dental issues?
Yes, regular use of nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste can help remineralize weak enamel, improve overall tooth strength, and protect against acid erosion and decay. This proactive approach supports long-term oral health and reduces the risk of developing sensitivity and cavities.
how long does it take to see results from nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste?
Most users begin to notice reduced sensitivity within two to four weeks of consistent brushing, and some users noticed reduced sensitivity even earlier. Optimal results, however, depend on regular use, proper oral hygiene, and avoiding known triggers. Patience and consistency are key.
what causes sensitive teeth in children?
Sensitive teeth in kids can result from several factors, including:
Dental trauma or injury
Early signs of cavities or decay
Grinding or clenching teeth (bruxism)
Enamel hypoplasia or developmental defects
Emerging adult teeth or orthodontic appliances
Frequent consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks
Promoting good oral care routines in kids, including brushing with a kid-friendly hydroxyapatite toothpaste designed for enamel health, can minimize future sensitivity issues.
can dehydration cause tooth sensitivity?
Yes, dehydration can lead to dry mouth, reducing saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and protect enamel. This effect can make teeth more vulnerable to sensitivity and decay.