Tooth sensitivity often feels like a minor inconvenience we can brush off, until suddenly your teeth appear yellower, bad breath takes over, and now you have visible cavities. Beneath that quick sting of sensitivity lies an eroded enamel, exposed dentin, bacterial overgrowth, and a disbalanced oral microbiome. And if left unaddressed? Sensitivity is not just discomfort, but a warning sign that may lead to cavities, gum inflammation, and long-term damage to the enamel.
Dental cavities are far from being a niche issue in India; in fact, they affect more than half the population. According to research titled “Prevalence of Dental Caries in the Indian Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis,” cavities have an overall prevalence of 54.16% in India. Tooth sensitivity is one of the earliest signs of a cavity.
How is Sensitivity and Cavities Related?
We may perceive that sensitivity and caries (cavities) are separate issues, but they are deeply connected. When enamel wears off due to factors such as acid erosion or gum recession, the dentin beneath becomes exposed. Dentin has microscopic tubules that lead straight to nerve endings, which is why you feel sharp pain in reaction to cold, heat, sweets, or acidic foods. According to research titled “Pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of dentin hypersensitivity: an evidence-based overview for dental practitioners,” it explains how dentin hypersensitivity is caused due to thermal, osmotic, and chemical stimuli, causing hot and cold and sweet and sour sensitivity.
Studies show that loss of enamel and the resulting exposure of the dentin significantly increase the risk of caries. In a cross-sectional study on dentin hypersensitivity, it is explained that enamel loss, due to factors such as erosion, bruxism, and gingival recession, was closely associated with dentin hypersensitivity.
Once plaque accumulates on exposed dentin, acid-producing bacteria (like Streptococcus mutans) can flourish, demineralizing the already weakened surface. Once this bacterium latches on, its biofilm (plaque) formation accelerates, producing acid that dissolves enamel, hence leading to tooth decay (cavities).
What is your Sensitivity Signaling Towards?
1. Enamel Erosion: Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, yet it can erode over time due to acidic foods, plaque acids, or grinding. When the enamel wears off, the underlying dentin becomes exposed. Dentin contains tiny microscopic dentinal tubules that directly connect to the tooth nerve. This is why hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods trigger pain.
2. Gum Recession Exposes Dentin and Roots: Gum disease (gingivitis or early periodontitis), aggressive brushing, or age-related changes can cause gums to recede, and the sensitive root surface becomes exposed. Unlike enamel-covered surfaces, roots have no natural protection and are extremely cavity-prone. According to an article, gum recession exposes the roots, making your teeth prone to cavities.
3. Sensitivity Often Overlaps with Early-Stage Cavities: Ignoring sensitivity at the earlier stages will cost you, as it can progress to deeper decay, infections, or the need for painful treatment.
4. A Disbalanced Oral Microbiome: Your mouth has 2 types of bacteria, one that balances the oral microbiome and the other that harms it. Healthy teeth depend on a balanced microbiome, good bacteria that keep harmful microbes in check. When decay-causing bacteria dominate, the acids they produce contribute to enamel demineralization, gum inflammation, and heightened sensitivity.
Clove Day & Night Combo: The Perfect Combination to Keep Your Cavities in Check
The Clove Day & Night Combo is a smart, dentist-perfected, and Indian mouth-tested solution for problems like sensitivity and decay. Our patented Optafresh® Technology soothes nerves, reduces inflammation, protects the microbiome, and keeps you fresh 24*7.
● Clove Ultimate (Daytime): Its bioactive technology modulates bacterial behavior (selectively reducing the harmful bacteria), which helps reduce the formation of acid-producing biofilms during the day. This protects enamel from repeated acid attacks after meals or snacks. It also supports a healthier oral microbiome as the beneficial bacteria are not wiped out.
24-Hour Freshness: Keeps breath fresh and oral defenses active all day. Its spontaneous antibacterial action protects against bad breath and keeps your oral hygiene maintained.
● Clove Sensitive (Nighttime): When saliva flow slows down overnight and the risk of acid accumulation is higher, Clove Sensitive is your way to go. It soothes your teeth instantly.
Fluoride Enamel Shield: Helps remineralize your enamel and strengthen it to resist future acid attacks.
Gentle & Safe: Low-abrasive formula, and free from parabens, peroxide, and triclosan. The Optamint™ cool mint flavour gives a pleasant, calming experience.
How to Use These Combos for Best Results
1. Morning ritual: Brush with Clove Ultimate for two minutes. Focus on all surfaces, especially where plaque can find a hiding spot.
2. Night ritual: Use Clove Sensitive before bed. Be gentle yet thorough; this is when the enamel gets replenished and dentinal tubules get sealed.
The world has witnessed a paradigm shift; oral hygiene and dental health are now finding the spotlight and discussion they deserve. Every mouth is unique, and every oral problem needs to be handled in the right way. Our Day & Night Combo is a holistic oral care duo, designed to maintain proper oral hygiene.