Is devouring a whole ice cream on chilly winters one of your guilty pleasures? However, it has become quite painful in some ways. From sipping into your first cup of masala chai to ending the day with a few spoons of ice cream, everything reminds you of that stinging pain, and you just stop yourself. Well, life is not supposed to be so hard on you, depriving you of the satisfaction of the simple joys. Perhaps it is not life, but your habits that have led to this condition. Yes, your exposed dentin is vulnerable towards hot and cold foods.
What is hot and cold sensitivity?
The enamel is the protective layer of the teeth, and unfortunately, our habits can make it wear off. Under the shiny enamel (or under gum-exposed root surfaces) lies the dentin, a softer, porous layer full of microscopic channels called dentinal tubules. These tubules are directly connected to the nerve inside the tooth.
Thermal stimuli cause hot and cold sensitivity. It is one of the most common forms of dentin hypersensitivity. Dentin contains thousands of microscopic tubules filled with fluid, and according to the widely accepted Hydrodynamic Theory proposed by Brännström, sudden temperature changes cause rapid fluid movement inside these tubules, stimulating the nerves within the dental pulp and producing the characteristic sharp, short pain. When dentin becomes exposed due to enamel erosion, gum recession, abrasion, or microcracks caused by external triggers such as hot and cold substances, the fluid movement inside those tubules is affected. According to a study titled “Gingival Recession: Review and Strategies in Treatment of Recession,” it highlights that even mild gingival recession can significantly increase a tooth’s sensitivity to thermal changes because root surfaces lack enamel protection.
The difference between hot and cold sensitivity and sweet and sour sensitivity: Hot, cold, sweet, and sour sensitivities all share a common biological pathway: exposed dentin tubules. These microscopic channels are situated beneath the enamel and connect directly to the nerve-rich pulp. When enamel thins due to erosion, abrasion, or gum recession, these tubules remain open, allowing external stimuli to trigger nerve responses.
Thermal stimuli, such as hot coffee or ice-cold water, cause rapid expansion or contraction of the fluid inside the tubules. According to the Hydrodynamic Theory, this sudden fluid movement mechanically stimulates the nerve endings, producing the characteristic short, sharp “zing” of thermal sensitivity.
On the other hand, osmotic stimuli, like sweet or sour foods, draw or push fluid across the tubules due to changes in osmotic pressure. Sugars create a hyperosmotic environment, pulling fluid outward, while acids reduce pH and dissolve mineral content, widening dentinal tubules and making them even more reactive. This is why biting into a lemon or eating a piece of chocolate can produce the same painful sensation as exposure to temperature extremes.
What commonly exposes dentin:
● The dentin is exposed when the pH level in your mouth is lowered, and the minerals in your teeth wear off.
● Gum recession from aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, or age, which exposes root cementum and dentin.
● Tooth wear or abrasion (hard brushing, gritty pastes, abrasive habits). Micro-fractures, grinding (bruxism), and dental procedures may also cause sensitivity.
● Plaque buildup due to inadequate oral care.
How can Clove Sensitive help?
● Potassium nitrate in Clove Sensitive: According to a study titled “Evaluation of the clinical efficacy of potassium nitrate desensitising mouthwash and a toothpaste in the treatment of dentinal hypersensitivity,” it is an extremely effective desensitising agent to deal with dentin hypersensitivity. Regular twice-daily use will gradually reduce nerve sensitivity by stabilising nerve firing, lowering the pain response to thermal stimuli. Clinical trials show measurable improvement after consistent use.
● Clove Sensitive toothpaste contains pyrophosphates, which prevent the buildup of dental calculus (tartar). Pyrophosphate works by binding with calcium ions in saliva, which inhibits the mineralisation of plaque into hard tartar on the teeth's surface.
● Fluoride and enamel support: fluoride strengthens enamel and serves as a frontline preventive agent against decay. Dental caries is a prevalent chronic disease worldwide, and fluoride has been a crucial agent in inhibiting demineralisation and anti-bacterial activities. According to a study on the effectiveness of fluoride in preventing dental caries, it has been found that fluoride suppresses cariogenic bacteria and promotes the remineralisation of the enamel.
● Clove Sensitive features a low-abrasive formula that prevents further abrasion of dentin. It cleans the teeth properly without damaging the exposed dentin.
● Clove Sensitive contains zinc gluconate that helps maintain gum health and also reduces bad breath. Zinc gluconate has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting the growth of odour-causing bacteria and keeping you fresh all day. It transforms VSCs into odourless complexes. Zinc gluconate does not stop there; it also reduces tartar buildup, soothes the gums in case of gingival inflammation, and reduces any discomfort.
● It features Optamint™ Fresh Cool Mint Flavour that keeps you fresh and smiling all day long.
Clove Sensitive addresses both immediate nerve pain and the structural cause (open tubules), while protecting enamel to prevent recurrence. It features a dentist-perfected formulation and is a boon for the Indian mouths that crave some kadak chai the moment they wake up.
Some useful tips to get the most relief:
● Brush gently with a soft brush - forceful scrubbing wears enamel and pushes gums back.
● Use Clove Sensitive toothpaste twice daily, as studies have shown that it increases the effectiveness.
