Tooth Sensitivity May Increase With Cold Weather

The cold weather may do more than give you a chill. Tooth sensitivity is connected to winter weather. If you feel pain when you eat or drink something cold, you understand the discomfort. But did you know frigid temperatures can have the same affect? We’re going to explain why it happens and how to prevent tooth sensitivity during the cold months.

Why do my teeth hurt in winter?

Exposure to extreme heat or cold can be rough on your teeth. In response to changing temperatures, your teeth expand and contract. Teeth are porous, so cold air causes them to contract. When the temperature rises, your teeth expand. This likely explains why you may feel intense tooth sensitivity when you go from outdoors to indoors. The sudden change in temperature can create small cracks in your teeth.

Tooth sensitivity and gum disease

While anyone is susceptible to oral pain due to winter weather, those with poor oral hygiene are at most risk. When your teeth contract and expand, dentin is exposed. Dentin is located just under enamel and is connected to nerve fibers in the tooth. It’s what causes pain if you have a cavity or gum disease. Any problems you already experience with tooth sensitivity will be amplified during the winter, especially those caused by a lack of oral hygiene. The best way to prevent pain is to understand what causes sensitivity and take action to prevent it.

What causes tooth sensitivity?

Extreme pain from sensitivity during the winter months is a sign of an underlying dental problem. Some of the most common reasons for tooth sensitivity include:

• Cavities
• Cracked tooth
• Faulty tooth filling
• Faulty dental bridge or crown
• Gum disease
• Retracted or recessed gum line
• Tooth infection

Brushing at least twice a day, flossing once, and using mouth rinse will help guard against these dental issues. Routine dental checkups will allow your Bridgeport / Trumbull Line dentist to detect small issues before they grow into major pains.

Protect your teeth from the cold

Speak with your dentist about the pain. Dental x-rays may be needed to determine if a larger problem exists. Some simple steps to take to avoid tooth sensitivity include:

• Switching toothpastes to a sensitive -based brand
• Use a fluoride mouthrinse once a day
• Floss regularly to prevent gum recession
• Breathe through your nose when outdoors to prevent cold air from reaching teeth

If you’re using teeth whitening products, speak with your dentist about the ingredients. Some products can increase sensitivity and a better method could be available. If you’re experiencing painful tooth sensitivity on a regular basis, schedule a consultation with the DeJesus Dental Group. Severe tooth sensitivity needs to be addressed immediately. If left untreated, it could create ongoing oral and health issues. The DeJesus dental team can help alleviate your concerns and walk you through a treatment plan that will have you smiling comfortably, even in the middle of winter.