Khaberni - Many people feel refreshed immediately after cleaning their teeth, but the reason behind this sensation is due to a natural compound in the toothpaste.
The secret lies in menthol, a natural compound derived from mint plants. When using toothpaste, menthol activates TRPM8 receptors in the mouth, which are the same receptors responsible for the sensation of coldness.
Menthol deceives your brain into feeling cold, in a way similar to how spicy peppers make the brain feel heat. This occurs through the binding of menthol to the receptors and changing their shape, allowing calcium ions to enter and send a brain signal that is interpreted as a sensation of coldness.
When drinking water or inhaling air, menthol spreads in the mouth and activates more receptors, making the sensation of the liquids and air feel colder than they actually are.
