If you’ve ever experienced tooth sensitivity—especially after a filling, crown, or cleaning—you’re not alone. At Pecan Tree Family Dentistry, we often treat patients who flinch at cold drinks or feel discomfort after dental work. One of our favorite solutions? Gluma Desensitizer.
🧪 What Is Gluma?
Gluma is a liquid desensitizer made by Heraeus Kulzer. It’s used to reduce sensitivity on exposed dentin and under restorative materials like fillings or crowns.
🔬 Key Ingredients:
- 5% Glutaraldehyde – Coagulates proteins in the tubules
- 35% HEMA (Hydroxyethyl methacrylate) – Penetrates and forms resin tags
Together, they seal dentinal tubules—stopping the fluid movement that causes pain.
⚙️ How Does Gluma Work?
Tooth sensitivity happens when dentin tubules are exposed. These tiny channels lead to the nerve inside your tooth. When cold or pressure hits, fluid moves inside the tubules, triggering pain.
Gluma tackles this in two ways:
- Protein Coagulation: Glutaraldehyde clogs the tubules by coagulating proteins inside.
- Resin Sealing: HEMA forms a physical resin barrier inside the tubules .
This dual-action seal provides fast, long-lasting relief with no light curing required.
🦷 When Do Dentists Use Gluma?
At Pecan Tree Family Dentistry, we apply Gluma in situations like:
- Before bonding a composite restoration (especially total-etch)
- Under crowns, bridges, and inlays to reduce post-op sensitivity
- On exposed root surfaces from gum recession
- After periodontal treatments like deep cleanings
- For abfraction lesions not caused by decay
✅ Benefits of Gluma
- Instant and long-term sensitivity relief
- Compatible with most bonding systems
- Easy to apply (no curing needed)
- Clinically proven effectiveness
📌 Related Reading: Understanding Dental Desensitizers
🧬 Gluma vs. Other Desensitizers
| Product | Main Ingredients | Mechanism | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gluma | Glutaraldehyde + HEMA | Protein coagulation + resin tag | Gold standard for procedural sensitivity |
| TheraCal LC (Bisco) | Calcium silicate | Pulp capping & remineralization | Great for direct/indirect pulp capping |
| GC MI Paste | CPP-ACP (Recaldent) | Remineralization | Daily care for mild sensitivity |
| Super Seal | Potassium oxalate | Tubule blockage via oxalates | Quick but less durable |
| Oraqix® | Lidocaine + Prilocaine | Temporary numbing | Numbs but doesn’t seal tubules |
| Sensodyne® Toothpaste | Potassium nitrate | Nerve depolarization | OTC solution, needs regular use |
🧑⚕️ Clinical Tips for Using Gluma
- Apply with a microbrush for 30–60 seconds
- Leave the dentin moist—don’t overdry
- Do not rinse after application
- Follow with adhesive or place the restoration directly
📞 Sensitive Teeth? Ask Us About Gluma
If cold air or hot drinks make your teeth ache, Gluma may be the quick fix you need. We incorporate Gluma into our everyday protocols to keep your smile comfortable and strong—especially after fillings or cleanings.
📞 Call (972) 562-0767 or book online
