Dantaharsha: An Ayurvedic Perspective on Cold-Induced Dental Hypersensitivity

Dantaharsha is a clinical condition meticulously documented in ancient Ayurvedic texts, particularly within the Shalakya Tantra (specialty of supra-clavicular diseases). It presents as a hypersensitive response of the teeth to external stimuli such as cold (Sheeta), wind (Vata), and sour substances (Amla), bearing a direct clinical correlation to modern Dentin Hypersensitivity (DH). In Ayurveda, this condition is recognized as a Vata-dominant disorder where the "unctuousness" (Sneha) of the dental structure is depleted, leading to the exposure of the sensitive inner matrix. Modern science explains this phenomenon through the Hydrodynamic Theory, involving the movement of fluid within dentinal tubules. This academic article explores the multifaceted dimensions of Dantaharsha, ranging from its classical Nidana (etiology) and Samprapti (pathogenesis) to its management through Gandusha (oil pulling), Kavala (gargling), and Pratisarana (local application). By integrating traditional Vata-shamaka protocols with contemporary understanding of tubule occlusion, this review highlights the efficacy of Ayurvedic interventions like Irimedadi Taila and Tiladi Gandusha as sustainable alternatives to synthetic desensitizers.