Understanding and Managing Tooth Sensitivity in Cold Weather
Have you ever experienced tooth sensitivity during the winter season?
Tooth sensitivity can be uncomfortable any time of year, but for many it becomes especially bothersome when cold weather comes around. That sharp, sudden pain when you breathe in chilly air or sip a hot drink can disrupt your day and make winter less enjoyable.
Learn how cold weather affects tooth sensitivity and tips to manage tooth sensitivity throughout the winter season.
What causes tooth sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity can be caused by many factors that expose or irritate dentin, the underlying layer beneath tooth enamel. Common causes include:
- Brushing teeth too hard: Vigorous brushing or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can wear down enamel and expose dentin, leading to tooth sensitivity.
- Pro tip: Learn how to brush your teeth the correct way.
- Teeth grinding (Bruxism): Grinding wears down the enamel, exposing dentin and leading to sensitivity, particularly on biting surfaces.
- Cracked teeth: Cracks or fractures in teeth allow irritants to reach the dentin or even the pulp, which can result in sharp sensitivity or pain.
- Gum recession: Receding gums may expose the roots of teeth, which are more sensitive than the protected areas of the tooth.
- Some teeth whitening products: Some whitening agents can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity by weakening the enamel or irritating the gums.
- Recent dental procedures: Cleanings, fillings, or other treatments may cause temporary sensitivity due to irritation or exposure of underlying dentin.
Why does cold weather make tooth sensitivity worse?
Teeth can feel sensitive when exposed to hot, cold, or sweet food coming into contact with the tooth nerve, causing pain. However, tooth sensitivity may worsen in the winter or when exposed to cold air for a few reasons.
- Thermal contraction: Teeth, like many materials, react to cold by contracting. When enamel and dentin contract at different rates, tiny gaps can form, potentially exposing the underlying sensitive dentin.
- Exposed dentin or roots: If gums have receded or if enamel is worn down, exposing the dentin or tooth roots, the cold can reach these sensitive areas directly, triggering discomfort or pain.
- Increased blood flow: When teeth are exposed to cold, the body may increase blood flow to the area as a response, which can intensify the sensation and make the teeth feel even more sensitive.
Tips for managing tooth sensitivity in cold weather
Wearing a scarf to cover your mouth or breathing through your nose can help shield your teeth from the cold air when you’re outside, reducing sensitivity during colder weather. Additionally, changes to your oral health care routine may help protect against tooth sensitivity.
Here are some ideas:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and try to avoid brushing too hard. Using soft-bristled toothbrushes will cause less irritation to the tooth surface and gums.
- Change your toothpaste: Use a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth or those with exposed root surfaces. Not all desensitizing toothpaste works the same, so ask your dentist for recommendations.
- Maintain a good oral hygiene routine: Brush your teeth twice daily, floss once daily, and schedule a dental visit every six months.
- Avoid teeth grinding: Consider consulting your dentist and purchasing a nightguard to protect against teeth grinding.
- Make changes in your diet: Acidic foods and beverages (like citrus, soda, or vinegar-based foods) weaken enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to temperature changes. Avoid or limit these foods and drinks to reduce tooth sensitivity.
When to see a dentist for tooth sensitivity
Although tooth sensitivity is common, there are times when it’s a good idea to see your dentist. If your sensitivity lasts more than a few weeks or doesn’t improve with desensitizing toothpaste or at-home remedies, it’s time for a professional evaluation. If both hot and cold temperatures, or even chewing or brushing, cause pain, it could signal deeper dental problems that need to be treated by a dental professional. Intense or sharp pain may indicate a more serious issue, like a cracked tooth, cavity, or exposed root that needs treatment.
As a good rule of thumb, if tooth sensitivity is becoming bothersome, it’s time to see your dentist. Don’t wait until the sensitivity becomes too painful to seek evaluation.