Sensitive Teeth and Dental Caries: Etiology, Prevention, Treatment, and Consequences

Abstract

Dentin hypersensitivity and dental caries can significantly impair oral functions, thereby reducing an individual’s quality of life. Both conditions may be associated with highly unpleasant symptoms and potential consequences; in the case of dental caries, nutritional and aesthetic impacts should be particularly emphasized. Dentin hypersensitivity is characterized by sharp pain and, beyond the aforementioned effects, may pose a serious barrier to both personal and professional oral hygiene. Dental caries often emerges already in early childhood and, while it is easily treatable in its initial stages, neglect may lead to severe complications such as pulpitis or tooth necrosis, not to mention the indication for increasingly invasive and costly treatment procedures. From the perspective of both dental conditions, it is advisable to place greater emphasis on prevention, which primarily includes the application of proper toothbrushing techniques, the use of certain prophylactic, tooth-protective or tooth-strengthening procedures, and the avoidance of acidic foods and beverages that damage dental hard tissues. For successful outcomes, these preventive measures should be initiated in early childhood, where digital technology may also play a significant supportive role.