Dentin sensitivityis when, in response to certain stimuli, the patient experiences discomfort or pain, acute and short-lived, that is not attributable to specific dental causes or disorders.
Triggering dentin sensitivity can be thermal stimuli (hot or cold foods and drinks) or mechanical (chewing). Tooth sensitivity is a widespread disorder and is a sign of an excessive defense mechanism of the tooth against certain stimuli perceived as harmful.
Women between the ages of 20 and 40 suffer from it the most. Most people who suffer from dentin sensitivity experience pain when taking cold food or drinks; about a quarter when taking hot food and drinks.
Other stimuli that are the source of painful twinges may be:
- The inhalation of cold air;
- The consumption of sweet foods;
- tooth brushing (especially when rinsing with cold water).
